Hayling Island thug jailed for viciously attacking 'vulnerable' woman at campsite

Richard Bolder, 28, claimed he had no memory of the attack on the woman in her 20s in Dover Court, Hayling Island, and at the nearby Oven Campsite.

Police said he assaulted her on the night of March 7 before inflicting more serious injuries in an attack in the early hours of the next day.

Bolder denied the more serious attack, claiming his drink had been spiked meaning he had no memory, police said. He also inferred the woman caused her own injuries.

The victim was left with serious bruising and swelling to her face and body, a spokeswoman said.

Bolder, of Fathoms Reach, Hayling Island, denied causing grievous bodily harm but admitting an assault by beating offence that was caught on CCTV.

He was convicted after a trial at Swindon Crown Court and jailed for four years and three months.

Officer in the case, Police Staff Investigator Natalie Woods said: ‘I hope that the victim in this case can finally begin to rebuild her life in the knowledge that Bolder is now in prison.

‘This was a vicious assault against an extremely vulnerable lady. Bolder claimed to have not remembered most of the evening, because he thought his drinks were spiked.

‘He continued to deny the offence throughout and even inferred that the victim could have caused the injuries to herself.

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‘I am relieved that the court has come to the conclusion that Bolder is guilty, following our thorough investigation, as part of our commitment to tackle those who cause the most harm to our communities. I would like to commend the victim in this case for her continued bravery throughout.’

A message from the Editor, Mark Waldron

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