A THUG has been convicted of biting a woman following an argument in the street.

Brandon Lanham had denied assault but was convicted at Colchester Magistrates' Court.

Despite the victim not wanting to press charges, Essex Police were able to bring about a prosecution.

Details have been released by the force as part of the worldwide 16 Days of Action Against Domestic Abuse awareness campaign.

Officers were called to Hythe Hill, Colchester, shortly before 7pm on a day in August when Lanham was seen rowing with a woman.

Two people driving by had spotted he bit her and called the police.

One of them got out of his car, challenged him and allowed the victim to take refuge in the car.

He was arrested shortly afterwards and then charged.

Lanham, of Queen Elizabeth Way, Colchester, will be sentenced next month.

Investigating officer Sgt Dan Smith, of Colchester Domestic Abuse Investigations Team, said: “The incident was domestic in nature and unfortunately, the victim did not feel in the right place to support a criminal prosecution.

“However, with a number of witnesses providing statements and footage from our body warn cameras, we secured a charge and a conviction against Lanham – who is due to be sentenced next month.

“As domestic abuse investigators, we occasionally deal with complex incidents involving people known to each other where victims won’t support further action.

“We often investigate matters where the victim has not felt able to support the police but we believe it is in the best interest of the victim and if the evidence is overwhelming, we will look to prosecute.”

Police have urged people to report all abuse on 101 or online. You can also call Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.