Daniel Oldfield

On the night of 2 April 2022, Daniel Oldfield, a 48-year-old man of no fixed address, attacked a woman in her own home in Clacton-on-Sea. Oldfield had been sleeping elsewhere in the property earlier that evening but entered the woman’s bedroom, where he assaulted her, injuring her hand and holding her by the neck before fleeing the room.

Later the same night, as the woman slept, Oldfield returned and carried out a further attack, raping and sexually assaulting her. The victim sought medical attention the following day for her hand injury at a hospital, where police were informed by medical staff. This prompted Oldfield’s initial arrest on suspicion of assault.

Detective Constable Rebecca Welch from Essex Police contacted the victim following the arrest. With ongoing support from Welch, the woman disclosed the full details of the rape and sexual assault in November 2022, enabling a prosecution. Oldfield was re-arrested, charged with rape and sexual assault by penetration, and remanded in custody that month.

Oldfield was tried at Ipswich Crown Court over two weeks, culminating in August 2024 when a jury found him guilty by a majority verdict of 11 to 1. Despite attempts by Oldfield to delay proceedings during court appearances, he was sentenced on 30 October 2024 to 14 years’ imprisonment. Additionally, an indefinite sexual harm prevention order was imposed to manage risks upon his eventual release.

Sergeant Sonia Mirrington-French of the Colchester domestic abuse problem solving team praised the victim’s bravery, stating: “It has been three-and-a-half years since this incident and the woman at the centre of this case had conducted herself with dignity throughout. Oldfield had used every court appearance to delay or obstruct his case and eventual sentencing, but is now behind bars.”

Detective Constable Welch added: “Knowing that this woman would finally see justice, that others aren't going to be hurt by him and that other women were safe was my motivation throughout this case. Oldfield showed throughout this case he had no remorse for his crimes or understanding of the impact he had had on this woman. It’s why we applied for the lifetime sexual harm prevention order, to ensure we can keep the tightest control possible of Oldfield upon his release.”

The case was investigated by Essex Police, highlighting their commitment to supporting victims of domestic abuse and sexual offences. The sentencing marks the end of a prolonged legal process, ensuring Oldfield faces significant consequences for his actions.