A WOMAN assaulted by a man while riding her bike in Nazeing earlier this year has thanked officers after he was jailed.

Domenico Anselmo, 27, of Meadgate Road, Nazeing, received a 4-year sentence yesterday (Thursday 16 December) at Chelmsford Crown Court, in connection with a series of sexual offences in the west of the county and across the border into Hertfordshire.

He had previously plead guilty to 17 offences, including sexual assault and indecent exposure.

One of the women he physically assaulted was riding her push bike along Nursery Road, Nazeing, at the time, in May 2021.

She said: “I always try and go for a walk or a bike ride after work to get out of the house.

“I was riding my bike when I was suddenly hit from behind. I almost fell off, it was with such force. 

“My first instinct was to get home as soon as I could. It was a really distressing journey as I still had five or six miles left of my route and didn’t know whether he was still behind me.

“As soon as I got home, I called 101 and reported it. When I was describing what had happened, I realised that I’d sensed someone following me beforehand.

“I just couldn’t understand how you could do that to someone. I still don’t. What if it was your mother, a sister or your daughter this happened to?

“Even though it’s been a difficult process to go through, I can genuinely say that everyone I’ve spoken to at Essex Police have been brilliant.

“The officers have always taken their time to explain the case and next steps, and said I could phone them back whenever I needed.

“At no point did they make me feel as if my report was insignificant.

“I’ve had a really positive experience and I’d like to say thank you to them for the way they’ve dealt with it and the man hours that must have gone into the investigation.”

Describing what advice she would give to anyone who may experience something similar, she said:

“I’m really glad I reported it. If someone asked me whether they should do the same, my answer would be definitely.

“As soon as I heard that he’d been arrested and taken into custody, I felt a sense of relief.  

“I don’t think people really appreciate the long-term impact this can have on someone.

“If you’re reading this and it’s happened to you, I’d say don’t hesitate. Pick up the phone and report it.
“Don’t let them get away with it.”

DC Clair Ward, the investigating officer for the case from Harlow CID, said:

“I think it’s a true testament to their strength and determination that the women in this case reported Anselmo and made him answer for his crimes.

“It’s incomprehensible how anyone can think it’s okay to physically assault someone or make them feel vulnerable in their own community.

“For some of them, their only break from lockdown during a worldwide pandemic was to go on walks, runs or bike rides.

“Nobody should fear that someone walking past them will hurt them or cause them distress.

“It will never be acceptable for someone’s behaviour to take away another person’s freedom.

We believe that #AllMenCan make a difference in ending violence against women and girls. If you are a victim of violence, or know someone who is, you can seek support and find community resources by visiting www.setdab.org. Always call 999 in an emergency.