Attacker left woman with bite mark to her face

Lawrence Drew, 54, attacked the woman in May last year and left teeth indents on her cheek.

Newcastle Crown Court heard the victim, who is vulnerable and has the assistance of a support worker, is a "reluctant witness" who has not supported the prosecution.

Police became involved after Drew and the woman visited a house where the people present noticed she was injured and flagged down officers in a passing car.

Prosecutor John Wilkinson told the court: "The complainant was showing visible signs of injury, in particular to the right side of her neck.

"The witness noticed teeth marks to her cheek area.

"She complained the defendant had bitten her."

The court heard the victim "explained away" some of her injuries when spoken to the police but said Lawrence was responsible for the injury to her face.

Drew, of, Martindale Park, Houghton, admitted assault.

Mr Recorder Ben Nolan QC sentenced him to 14 months behind bars, which should result in his immediate release due to the time he has spent on remand.

The judge told him it was a “very unpleasant offence” and said Drew had used his teeth as as "weapon" and that the victim was particularly vulnerable.

Lorraine Mustard, defending, said Drew has long standing mental health difficulties.

Miss Mustard said the prison regime Drew has experienced while on remand involves prisoners being locked in their cells for 23 hours per day due to the pandemic.