A MAN who violently assaulted two people inside a church in Dudley has been sentenced to nine years and seven months, West Midlands Police report.

The man, James Saunders, 39, of Stourbridge Road, Dudley, pleaded guilty at Wolverhampton Crown Court on 13 September to false imprisonment, assault by beating, and two counts of criminal damage to property.

On 14 November 2023, Saunders had prevented a woman from leaving Holy Trinity, Amblecote, a police statement said.

“The two talked for a short time although Saunders began rambling and not making sense. Saunders began making threats to kill the woman before launching his assault, knocking her to the floor and causing her to hit her head.

“The ordeal continued for some hours before the Vicar of the church arrived and asked what was going on. At this point Saunders attacked him, punching him and smashing up his mobile phone. He made more threats to kill both of them before officers arrived.”

The police had been called by a member of the public who had become concerned that the door to the church had been barred, the police report.

Saunders was arrested and charged. Det. Sgt Nadia Cooper said: “This sentence has taken a highly dangerous individual off our streets, and we hope the people he assaulted will find some closure knowing he has been jailed.”

The Archdeacon of Dudley, in the diocese of Worcester, the Ven. Nikki Groarke, said: “This was a very traumatic experience for those involved, and we are grateful to the police for resolving the situation and apprehending the offender.

“Thankfully, attacks in churches are relatively rare, and it is important that they continue to be a place of safety for our clergy, volunteers, and all those who visit.

“If anyone is feeling anxious, then our church buildings team and other parish support staff are always willing to talk through appropriate security measures.”