A man has been convicted at Teesside Crown Court after attempting to rape a young woman during her early morning run, an attack halted by the swift actions of local residents.
Swift community response to screams
The court heard how the violent incident unfolded on July 17, 2023, in the area of Eston. The victim was knocked to the ground by her attacker, Michael Wanless, during what should have been a routine jog.
Neighbours reported hearing desperate screams and immediately ran from their homes to investigate. Their intervention was crucial, as they pursued the fleeing assailant, ensuring he could not escape before police arrived on the scene.
Justice delivered after trial
Michael Wanless, 41, of no fixed abode, had denied the charges against him. However, the jury at Teesside Crown Court took just 35 minutes to reach a unanimous guilty verdict following the trial.
Judge Aisha Wadoodi presided over the case and formally recommended that the neighbours who came to the woman's aid should receive official commendations for their brave actions.
Praise for public bravery
In a statement following the conviction, a spokesperson for Cleveland Police emphasised the role the public played. They stated that the local people who assisted undoubtedly saved the woman from an even worse fate.
The spokesperson detailed how the woman had bravely fought off her attacker while screaming for help, drawing the attention of the Good Samaritans who then chased the man a considerable distance until officers could detain him.
Wanless is now awaiting his sentence, which is scheduled to be delivered at the same court on January 9.
