'I cannot put into words how brave this man's victim is'

A thug left a woman terrified to speak out as he threatened her and her family having attacked and berated her. Ben Fitton has been locked up for a string of sickening crimes against his victim.

Violent Fitton, from Glossop, is finally behind bars after the woman contacted Greater Manchester Police via its online chat service.

Desperate for help, she spoke to the force via its online chat service.

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An investigation was launched and Fitton was arrested. At Manchester Crown Court on Friday, (September 27) Fitton, of no fixed address, was convicted of offences including rape; non-fatal strangulation; and causing grievous bodily harm. He will be sentenced on November 4.

Detective Sergeant Ruth Thompson said: "I cannot put into words just how brave this victim has been. Listening to what she has been through, it is unfathomable to imagine.

"Ben Fitton is a violent perpetrator who will now ultimately face justice in the coming months. This victim has been supported throughout the process, but I know just how difficult it can be to come forward in these instances, particularly when you are under threat of violence.

"I want to make a plea to any victim who may be suffering something like these experiences to please come forward to us. We are committed to improving the service we deliver to victims, working closely with partners and support organisations to do that.

"We will listen to you, investigate thoroughly, and bring perpetrators to justice."