Man jailed for "violently" attacking woman and vicar in Black Country church

A man has been jailed for nine years and seven months after "violently" attacking a woman and vicar in a church in the Black Country, West Midlands Police said.

On 14 November last year, James Saunders, 39, entered the Holy Trinity Church in Amblecote near Stourbridge where he came across the woman.

When she tried to leave, he blocked her path and prevented her from leaving, ordering her to sit at the front of the church.

Police said the two talked for a while before he became rambling and incoherent.

It was then Saunders began making threats to kill the woman before attacking her and keeping her prisoner in the church for hours.

Saunders then turned his attack on the vicar once he arrived, punching him and smashing his phone.

He made threats to kill both of them.

Officers arrived after being called by a member of the public who had become concerned that the door to the church had been barred.

Police forced their way in and arrested Saunders who went on to plead guilty to assault and false imprisonment.

Detective Sergeant Nadia Cooper said: "This was an appalling incident which caused significant fear and emotional distress to the two people assaulted, not to mention their physical injuries.

"This sentence has taken a highly dangerous individual off our streets and we hope the people he assaulted will find some closure knowing he has been jailed."

Archdeacon of Dudley, Nikki Groarke said: “This was a very traumatic experience for those involved and we are grateful to the police for resolving the situation and apprehending the offender.

"Thankfully, attacks in churches are relatively rare and it is important that they continue to be a place of safety for our clergy, volunteers and all those who visit.

"If anyone is feeling anxious, then our church buildings team and other parish support staff are always willing to talk through appropriate security measures.”

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