Man sentenced for 'terrifying' riverside attack

A man has been given a hospital order after carrying out a "terrifying" attack on a woman along a riverside path in Derby.

Police said James Daniels grabbed and threatened the 23-year-old victim with a knife while she was walking along the path off Riverside Road, Pride Park, at 08:40 GMT on 17 November.

The woman escaped with minor injuries after a struggle, and the 19-year-old fled the scene before being arrested the following day, the force added.

Daniels, of Broomhill Avenue in Ilkeston, pleaded guilty to assault by beating, possession of a knife/sharp pointed article in a public place, threatening a person with a blade/sharply pointed article in a public place and false imprisonment.

Daniels was sentenced at Derby Crown Court on Thursday.

In a statement to Derbyshire Police, the victim described the ordeal as "extremely traumatising" and that she is still "recovering from this".

Det Insp Nicola Musson said: "Daniels's actions were absolutely horrendous in subjecting an innocent victim to such a terrifying attack.

"The incident has had a profound effect on the woman involved and the consequences for the victim are always at the forefront of our minds when we investigate any crime.

"Thanks to the bravery of the victim, coupled with the investigative work by officers and assistance from members of the public, Daniels was caught and has now been sentenced for his crimes."

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