Hartlepool Man Jailed for Violent Assault on Woman
Stephen Auton locked up for vicious attack and property damage
Stephen Auton, 28, from Homer Grove, Hartlepool, has been sentenced to 27 months behind bars after brutally attacking a woman and wrecking her home. The violence unfolded last August and included punching, slapping, and vandalism, all while a child was present.
Attack sparked by a late night
On Saturday 23 August, the victim returned home late from work, triggering Auton’s rage. Despite her pleas for him to leave, he refused and struck her repeatedly. He slapped her head, pushed her into a door—injuring her hand—and smashed her TV to pieces before stealing a CCTV camera as he left.
Escalation hours later lands Auton in court
Auton came back in the early hours of 28 August, woke the woman, grabbed her—ripping her t-shirt—and punched her in the face. She suffered concussion, bruising, and injuries to her head and eyes, requiring hospital treatment and hand surgery.
The appalling assaults and property damage were witnessed by a child living in the home. The victim reported the attacks to police the very next day, leading to Auton’s swift arrest and charge.
Police praise victim’s courage as offender is sentenced
Detective Constable Jack Ellner said: “Auton subjected the woman to violent and horrific physical and mental abuse, sometimes in front of her child. “Since the case was reported, she has shown incredible strength and courage, making sure Auton faced justice. “I hope she continues to rebuild her life with that same bravery. “I want to urge anyone suffering abuse or who knows someone who is, to report it. When you do, we will act.”
Get help or report abuse
- Call Cleveland Police on 101 or visit their website
- Contact Crimestoppers anonymously at 0800 555 111
- Access support services via local referrals
Justice served as Hartlepool woman’s attacker is finally behind bars.
