A domestic abuser who tried to suffocate a woman in Worthing has been sentenced.

Enzo Giarratano assaulted the victim, a woman known to him, as she tried to escape.

The 54-year-old prevented the victim from leaving the address.

He put his hands over her mouth and nose, leaving her in fear for her life.

She said she was terrified by the assaults and that the incident continues to have a long-lasting impact.

At Lewes Crown Court on 16 January, Giarratano appeared for sentencing after admitting two counts of intentional suffocation.

The court was told how the incident happened on 18 January 2023 at an address in Worthing.

The morning after a dispute, Giarratano assaulted the victim.

She cried out for help and tried to escape the address, but Giarratano pulled her back into the property.

He only stopped after a neighbour came to the front door and challenged him.

Giarratano, of North End Road, West Kensington, was jailed for two years.

Speaking after the case, Investigator Jake Saunders said: “The victim reported this traumatic incident to the police and has shown great courage to report her experience.

“I would also like to thank the neighbour who supported the victim and called the police.

“The case continues to have a lasting impact on the victim, with fear of leaving home, nightmares and panic attacks.

“We take reports of domestic violence and abuse extremely seriously, and the force encourages all victims of these offences to contact Sussex Police.

“In this case, a dangerous offender has admitted his offences in court and is now serving a significant custodial sentence.”