Man jailed for 'vile' sexual assault in Barnsley

Steven Kerley attacked a 25-year-old woman in Barnsley

A man has been given a 21-year sentence for sexually assaulting a 25-year-old woman in South Yorkshire.

Sheffield Crown Court heard that Steven Kerley, 36, of Park View, Brierley, attacked the woman in Barnsley on 2 May 2021.

He was found guilty of assault by penetration on 24 April, along with assault occasioning actual bodily harm and engaging in coercive or controlling behaviour.

Kerley, who was cleared of six other charges, was jailed for 18 years with an extension period of three years.

Speaking after the sentencing on Friday, Det Con Rosie O’Grady, of South Yorkshire Police, said: “Our officers worked extremely hard to support the victim in bringing this case to court.

“Kerley’s vile actions have no place in society and I am pleased that he has been jailed for a long time."

She added: "I hope this result gives confidence to other survivors of sexual assault in South Yorkshire to come forward.”

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