A MAN has been jailed for five years after sexually assaulting his partner at home.

David Charles Owens, 55 and from Weymouth, appeared before Bournemouth Crown Court for sentencing on Thursday, February 2.

He had previously been convicted of sexual assault by penetration, assaulting occasioning actual bodily harm, and breaching a non-molestation order following a trial.

The incident, in January of last year, saw Owens sexually assault a woman - despite repeatedly being told to get off of her.

The victim struggled to get free and, as she did so, was punched in the face by Owens and suffered a broken nose.

Owens was subsequently arrested and an investigation was carried out by detectives from Dorset County CID.

His victim waived her right to anonymity, Dorset Police said.

Detective Constable Kate Rhodes, of Dorset County CID, said: “Dorset Police takes sexual and violent offences of this nature extremely seriously and we will carry out detailed enquiries to ensure those responsible face justice.

“This must have been extremely difficult for the victim and I would like to thank her for her support throughout the investigation.

“I hope this case will help encourage other victims of sexual and violent offences to find the bravery to come forward and report what has happened to the police, in the knowledge that they will be fully supported."

A spokesperson for Dorset Police added: "If you have been a victim of rape or sexual assault, and you want to report directly to the police please call 101 and ask to be put in contact with a specially-trained police officer. Always dial 999 in an emergency. Alternatively, you can contact The Shores Sexual Assault Referral Centre on 0800 970 9954.

"If you have been a victim of domestic abuse, or you know someone who is being abused, please report it to Dorset Police. This can be done in confidence."

For more information on help and advice around domestic abuse as well as details of agencies that can offer support visit www.dorset.police.uk/da.

A non-molestation order is aimed at preventing someone from using or threatening violence, intimidating, harassing or pestering a named list of individuals.