Man charged with sexual assault after woman attacked while walking home in Jesmond

Northumbria Police
Author: Micky WelchPublished 14th Sep 2023

A man has been charged with sexual assault after a woman was attacked while walking home in Jesmond.

The attack happened at about 3.20am on Sunday (September 10) as a 20-year-old woman was walking along St George’s Terrace, near Osborne Road.

An offender was reported to have grabbed the woman before attempting to drag her to the ground. Following a short struggle, the woman was able to get to safety and the offender made off.

A full investigation was immediately launched into the assault with officers appealing to the public for information to assist their enquiries.

Steven Donaghey, 22, of Walker Park Close, Walker, Newcastle, has now been charged with sexual assault. He is due to appear before magistrates in Newcastle today (Thursday).

Detective Inspector Ben McIntosh, of Northumbria Police, said: “This was clearly a worrying incident and from the outset we have been determined to ensure the person found to have been responsible is brought to justice.

“I would like to thank the victim for her amazing bravery and for her cooperation throughout this difficult investigation.

“With a man now charged and due to appear in court, I would ask that everyone avoids any speculation – both on social media and out in the community – that could jeopardise the live legal proceedings.

“We will continue to carry out increased patrols in and around the area, and anyone with any concerns is encouraged to speak to us.”

Anyone with information, who has yet to come forward, is asked to contact police via the ‘Tell Us Something’ page of our website or by calling 101 quoting log NP-20230910-0200.

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