A MAN has been sectioned after he caused life-changing psychological harm to a teenage girl who he attempted to rape in broad daylight.

William Thomas, of Macklin Road, pushed the girl to the floor as she walked her dog along Mill Lane, Stratford Sub Castle, on the morning of June 1, 2023.

The 17-year-old victim managed to fight him off before Thomas, 29, ran off into the countryside.

A police helicopter circled the area for around half an hour and eventually, with help from a police dog unit, found Thomas.

When police arrested and searched him, the father of two young children was found carrying a serrated knife and a skipping rope.

Salisbury Journal: Mill Lane, where Thomas tried to rape the teenager.Mill Lane, where Thomas tried to rape the teenager. (Image: Salisbury Journal)

Thomas, who pleaded guilty to attempted rape and possession of a bladed article on October 27, appeared in Winchester Crown Court to be sentenced on Friday, May 24.

The judge sectioned Thomas and ordered for him to be detained in a hospital under the Mental Health Act.

'Everything I do is based on fear'

The court heard about the impact Thomas' actions had on his victim.

In a statement, she said: "Since it happened my whole life has changed. In my head, my life is split into before and after the assault. It feels like everything I do is based on fear.

"I hate when my mind goes back to that day but it's so unexpected when it does. I still have moments of dissociation when I seem to lose at least a few seconds. All I want is to feel like a normal member of society without fear being the deciding factor for my every move.

"What happened to me has changed the course of my life forever and I don't see a reason why it shouldn't do the same for him."

Salisbury Journal: William Thomas assaulted the girl before he tried to rape her.William Thomas assaulted the girl before he tried to rape her. (Image: William Thomas)

DC Emma Fisher said: “I would like to praise the victim in this case for having the courage and conviction to see this through. The assault was terrifying for her and to relive it numerous times has been very difficult.

"Thomas attacked her in broad daylight and has changed her life forever. I would urge anyone who has been a victim of sexual assault to come forward and tell someone. We understand it can be difficult.

"You might not be completely sure what happened or how to talk about it, but we have trained officers and partner organisations that are here to listen and work together to support you in any way we can."