THE bravery of a woman who was stabbed 31 times by her ex-partner during a frenzied attack has been praised by detectives.
Christopher Blakemore carried out the vicious and brutal attack on Amy Johnson in front of their young child.
The 34-year-old, who refused to leave his prison cell to be sentenced, launched the unrpovoked attack in his victim's home on October 13, 2019.
A judge at Teesside Crown Court passed a 24-year sentence in the defendant's absence. The thug will serve 21 years in custody with an additional three years on extended licence.
Miss Johnson managed to escape the clutches of her six-foot six ex-partner as he repeatedly stabbed her to her neck, shoulders, chest, stomach, and thighs.
She hid in the bathroom of her home, alongside her terrified son, while she called 999 for help.
Read more: Monster plunged knife into his ex-partner 31 TIMES in front of their young son
The first officer on the scene provided essential assistance and reassurance to them both, and the woman was taken to hospital for treatment for dozens of stab injuries.
Despite being charged with attempted murder, Blakemore continued to deny what he had done, instead claiming self-defence.
However, he was convicted by a jury in December last year.
Chief Inspector Deb Fenny paid tribute to Detective Constable Andy Cartwright for his diligence during the investigation as well as other officers who supported the victim throughout police inquiries and the court process.
She said: “This was a horrific, sustained attack on a woman in her own home and in front of her young child. I can only imagine the terror they must have felt and the impact this traumatic incident has had on them both. I hope that today’s sentence will bring at least a degree of closure for them.
“I’d encourage victims of domestic abuse to contact Cleveland Police at any time on the 101 number (or 999 if it’s an emergency). They can be assured we will protect and support them while doing all we can to bring perpetrators to justice.”
In a victim impact statement, Miss Johnson said she had been forced to leave her job as a result of the injuries she suffered at the hands of the 34-year-old and both her and her son have been left traumatised by the knife attack.
Blakemore, of Ammerston Road, Middlesbrough, was found guilty in December of attempted murder following the brutal attack.
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