Overview

• Michael Holmes, a 42-year-old bare-knuckle fighter, was convicted of two rapes, attempted rape, sexual assault, and grievous bodily harm with a crossbow.
• Holmes was sentenced to 16 years in prison with an additional three years on extended licence at Teesside Crown Court.
• The court issued an indefinite restraining order and a lifelong sexual harm prevention order against Holmes to protect the victim and others.
• The victim suffered severe physical and emotional harm, including a broken nose from repeated punches and threats to her life with a crossbow.
• Detective Constable Rebecca Horner praised the victim’s bravery in coming forward and reaffirmed Durham Constabulary’s commitment to supporting survivors of abuse.