A MAN from Tilehurst has been jailed for 18 weeks for brutally assaulting a woman.

Ritchie Buckthorpe, 29, of Conway Road, appeared at Reading Magistrates Court today (Saturday) where he pleaded guilty to one count of assault.

On May 13 this year, assaulted a woman in her twenties at a property in Conway Road. He repeatedly pushed the woman to the ground, and slapped her a number of times causing her bruising and swelling to her face, arms and leg. He also held his victim to the floor, putting his hands around her throat.

Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police to trace Buckthorpe he was arrested on Thursday (12), charged with one count of assault by beating on Friday (13) and sentenced today.

He was jailed for 18 weeks, and handed an indefinite restraining order.

Investigating officer, Detective Constable, Rachel Belsher of the Domestic Abuse Investigation Unit based in Reading, said: “Domestic abuse is not acceptable, and Thames Valley Police will always investigate and support victims to bring their abusers to justice.

“I would like to commend the victim for her support and bravery throughout this investigation.

“If you are a victim of domestic abuse, please do report it to Thames Valley Police by calling our police enquiry centre on 101, or if you are in immediate danger please call 999”.

“Alternatively you can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or a support charity such as Women’s Aid, more details can be found on their website or by calling 0808 2000 247 24.”