Tree surgeon, 29, who carried out sex attack on female jogger jailed after being snared by DNA on facemask he dropped

A TREE surgeon who sexually assaulted a jogger has been jailed for nine years after dropping a face mask containing his DNA at the scene of the sickening attack.

The victim was out for an early morning run before starting work when she passed Christopher Cooper in Southwater, West Sussex, on October 27 last year.

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Christopher Cooper has been jailed for nine years for sexual assault and attempted rape[/caption]

The court heard how the 29-year-old had propped his bike up against a wall before standing and staring at his phone.

However, as the woman ran past him he suddenly grabbed her and pushed her to the ground.

She screamed at the top of her voice as he ripped off her clothes and started to sexually assault her.

The woman’s cries were heard by a passer-by who dashed to the scene causing Cooper to grab his bike and cycle off, a judge was told.

Cops were called and found a surgical face mask that the suspect had been wearing.

DNA left on the mask was later found to be a match for Cooper.

Cooper, of no fixed abode, eventually contacted the police after learning officers were looking for him.

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The tree surgeon wassentenced to nine years at Lewes Crown Court[/caption]

He was then arrested on suspicion of attempted rape and assaulting a woman by penetration.

Among his belongings was a jacket that matched the description given by witnesses.

He was also later picked out of an identity parade.

Cooper admitted both offences committed on October 27 last year and was sentenced at Lewes Crown Court to nine years’ imprisonment, three of which is to be served on extended licence.

Detective Sergeant Steve Webb said: “This was an extremely distressing ordeal for the victim, who has shown great bravery throughout.

“We are grateful to her and to all those who have assisted our investigation.

“Thanks to their support, and a swift response by our officers, we were able to secure vital DNA evidence at the scene and build a strong case against Christopher Cooper.

“His actions that day shows he had clear intent to cause a woman harm, and we are pleased to see him sentenced to nine years’ imprisonment.”