Sentencing at Newcastle Crown Court
On Tuesday, March 11, Lee McFarling, 40, of Dunstanburgh Close, Washington, was sentenced to 64 months in prison after pleading guilty to two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm, false imprisonment, two counts of sexual assault, and threats to kill.
Chilling Threats Caught on Emergency Call
During the hearing at Newcastle Crown Court, it was revealed that McFarling subjected his victim to sustained abuse before she managed to call 999. Part of his terrifying threat was captured in the background of the call, where he was heard saying he would “cut her head off, keep it in the loft, and occasionally take it out and play football with it.”
Ordeal of Violence and Abuse
The court heard how the victim endured two sexual assaults and was punched in the mouth while being held captive. The harrowing details of the attack left those in the courtroom stunned as prosecutors described the brutality of McFarling’s actions.
Detective Constable Hayley McIntosh, who led the investigation as part of Northumbria Police’s Safeguarding Department, condemned McFarling’s actions and praised the courage of the victim.
Police: “A Dangerous Predator Behind Bars”
Following the sentencing, Det Con McIntosh said, “McFarling is a dangerous predator, subjecting his victim to the most horrendous physical and sexual abuse imaginable. He’s a danger to society, and he is now exactly where he belongs – in prison.
“Although nothing will take back what he has done to her, I hope this sentence does provide her with some comfort in knowing McFarling is now behind bars and will be for a long time.”
Impact on the Victim
The victim, in a moving impact statement, described how the ordeal had “broken” her. She continues to suffer from flashbacks and nightmares, which have made daily life a struggle.
Det Con McIntosh praised the woman’s bravery in coming forward, saying, “I want to commend the survivor for her strength and composure throughout this investigation and the legal process.
“Hopefully now she can continue to rebuild her life, knowing she has played a vital role in ensuring McFarling will spend the rest of his life being monitored by the police. No one should ever have to endure this kind of assault, and we encourage anyone suffering from abuse to seek support.”
Support for Victims
Northumbria Police has urged victims of domestic abuse and sexual violence to come forward, reassuring the public that dedicated officers and support services are available to help survivors seek justice.
