Winsford man jailed after attacking 'vulnerable' woman

Lewis Goulding, of Tatton Close in Winsford, has been imprisoned after being convicted of causing actual bodily harm (ABH).

The 32-year-old appeared at Chester Crown Court on Monday (December 4), where he was sentenced to 27 months, of which he will have to serve half before being released on licence.

The court heard that on the day of the offence (May 16), both Goulding and the victim had been drinking.

They ended up having an argument, which became physical.

Prosecuting, Jennifer Devans-Tamakloe explained that Goulding was arrested but initially denied the assault.

However, he later admitted to delivering a number of blows, dragging the victim by her hoodie, and causing a number of injuries.

Miss Devans-Tamakloe read out a statement on the victim’s behalf.

“Fear isn’t the word for what I felt, I cant find the words,” she said.

“I really felt that maybe this is the end of my life.

“I have nightmares every night.”

Miss Devans-Tamakloe added that Goulding has a string of previous convictions, the most recent of which came in July 2022 when he was charged with breaching a restraining order.

Lewis Goulding will have to serve at least half of a 27 month prison sentence (Image: Cheshire Police)

Philip Clemo, defending, explained the relationship between Goulding and the victim was a 'close' one, but not romantic.

He also acknowledged Goulding has a history convictions, some of which involved violence.

Among them was an incident involving another woman, with whom he was in a romantic relationship.

Mr Clemo asked the judge to impose a suspended sentence, arguing that doing so would allow the defendant to work on his alcohol problem.

He said: “Drink is clearly an issue for him and is an aggravating feature.

“He is not alcoholic but he binges.

“It’s all very well saying when he’s in prison he won’t be able to drink but that’s not the issue, the issue is how he will live his life when he is out.”

However, judge Simon Berkson decided against a suspension, instead sentencing Goulding to 27 months behind bars, of which he must serve at least half.

He said: “This was an attack upon a drunk and vulnerable woman.

“You are someone who cannot contain your anger when drunk.

“You have a history of domestic violence offences.

“You had previously beaten up one of your female friends.

“The pre-sentence report states you are of a high risk of causing harm to partners in the future.”

Mr Berkson also issued a restraining order, prohibiting Goulding from contacting the victim and entering certain areas of Winsford.

This order will remain in place for 12 years, until December 3, 2035.