Yorkshire 2026-04-23

Michael Wanless 41

Predator knocked a runner to the ground before trying to rape her.

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Offender ID: O-8998

Locations

Not reported.

Description

A "dangerous" predator knocked a runner to the ground before trying to rape her as she "screamed" for help.

Michael Wanless, 41, targeted the woman early one morning in July 2023 while she was running alone in Eston.

He violently knocked her down, prompting her screams for help, which brought residents rushing to her aid.

Today at Teesside Crown Court, Wanless was classified as a dangerous offender and given an extended sentence of seven years in prison plus three years on licence to protect the public. He was also made subject to a lifetime restraining order.

In November last year, a jury took just 35 minutes to return a guilty verdict. He was remanded in custody pending sentencing.

Following sentencing, Detective Constable Prosser said:

“This lady has understandably suffered lasting trauma from this violent attack, not least because Wanless continually denied his actions that day.

“Despite this horrific ordeal, the lady’s bravery and steadfast support for our investigation has helped bring Wanless to justice and he’ll now spend time in prison where he belongs.

“I also want to thank the local community for their magnificent response that day; without hesitation they put the lady’s safety before their own even as Wanless turned violent against them as he tried desperately to evade police.

“The unwavering support we’ve received from the survivor and from the witnesses undoubtedly helped achieve Wanless’ conviction and I now hope his sentencing will reassure all our communities that Cleveland Police will do everything possible to remove dangerous and violent offenders from our streets.

“Finally, the investigating team wishes the lady all the very best in her ongoing recovery.”

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