A Halifax man has been locked up for more than seven years after a horrific campaign of domestic abuse and stalking. The victim gave a powerful Victim Personal Statement revealing the sheer horror she endured at the hands of Martin Woodhouse, 39, from Moins Close, Mixenden.

“He couldn’t stand the idea of losing control over me, losing his grip on me. And so, he snapped.”

“He beat me like I was an animal. I’ve never felt that level of hatred and violence before. He hit me harder than I could ever imagine, without any care, without any remorse. I thought I was going to die. I honestly thought that was it. I couldn’t breathe, couldn’t escape, this went on for hours. There was no stopping him, no calming him down, and I did try, I basically begged him to stop but he just wouldn’t. He carried on until I looked unrecognisable.”

“The scariest thing was the complete lack of mercy. I wasn’t even fighting back. I just stood there, numb, like I was watching someone else take the blows. In those moments, dying felt like it would be a release.”

“But it didn’t end there. Martin continued to abuse me, stalk me, spread lies, and tried to turn everyone against me. He even rang my work to try and get me sacked. The mental torture afterwards was something else. The physical wounds healed. But the mental scars? They won’t go away.”

Seven Years Behind Bars for Woodhouse

Woodhouse pleaded guilty to attempted section 18 assault and stalking, including causing fear of violence, for attacks on 1 September 2024 and a series of stalking incidents between December 2024 and January 2025.

He was also convicted after trial of two counts of dangerous driving for fleeing police on 28 and 29 January 2025. At the time, he was on bail and actively sought by police, sparking a media appeal due to his attempts to dodge arrest.

Police Praise Victim’s Courage and Officer’s Dedication

Detective Inspector David Purcell, Calderdale CID, said:

“Woodhouse was responsible for a sustained attack that left the victim with severe facial and bodily injuries. It took immense courage for her to come forward and report her then partner.”

“He then carried out a relentless campaign of stalking that kept the victim living in fear of further violence.”

“The officer involved was recognised by the judge for supporting a scared and reluctant victim to stay engaged with the justice process. This case highlights the strength of those who speak out against domestic abuse.”

“I hope the victim finds comfort knowing she was believed by police and the courts, and that Woodhouse is now behind bars for his crimes.”