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22
May
Ripon man who struck woman so hard she choked on her blood jailed
A Ripon man has today (May 22) been jailed for more than three years following a series of violent offences against women.
Noah Munson, 21, subjected one of his victims to an assault so brutal she believed she was going to die, while another woman lived in constant fear due to his violent and controlling behaviour.
North Yorkshire Police said Munson assaulted one of the victims on Queen Street in Ripon following an "altercation" in September 2023.
He hit the woman with such force she was knocked to the ground, which left “two large lacerations” to her head.
In a statement read to the court, the woman said she “genuinely believed” she was going to die that night.
From the moment I sustained my injuries until I arrived at hospital, I experienced a level of fear I had never known before.
I was choking on my own blood, losing consciousness, and had no idea whether I would survive.
The statement added the woman feels as though she is “surviving each day while battling recurring trauma”, and said the attack has permanently changed her.
Munson admitted an offence of wounding for this attack.
'I felt like I was always being watched'
Police said while Munson was on bail for the first offence, another woman went to a local police station to report “unwanted contact from him, and disclosed coercive and controlling behaviour – including threats and physical violence towards her”.
Munson was subsequently charged with two counts of assault and one count of controlling or coercive behaviour, to which he pleaded guilty at Leeds Crown Court on May 7.
The second victim also prepared statement, which was read to the court. It said:
During my relationship with Noah, his behaviour became increasingly controlling. Over time, I felt as though I had no say over my own life.
I was constantly frightened of upsetting him, and this fear became part of my everyday life.
Because of his behaviour, I lost my confidence and independence. I felt like I was always being watched and I no longer felt like myself.
The judge commended the victim for her bravery in supporting the prosecution.
Munson was today handed a 45-month jail sentence for the offences.
‘A pattern of serious violence’
After the sentencing hearing, North Yorkshire Police’s DC Louise Kennemore said:
The offending by Munson demonstrates a pattern of serious violence and coercive behaviour against female victims, causing both significant physical injury and long-term psychological harm.
Without the support of both victims at court, it is unlikely there would have been a positive outcome. They have shown considerable bravery in supporting the prosecutions. Their victim personal statements clearly outline the enduring emotional and psychological harm caused by Munson.
Tackling violence and domestic abuse against women and girls is a priority for North Yorkshire Police. It can happen to anyone – if you’re experiencing it, please come forward. You’re not to blame for what’s happening, and you’re not alone. There is advice and guidance on our website, and you can report what has happened online, over the phone, or speak to a support organisation who will help you.
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