Man jailed for serious sexual offences against woman in Southport

A man has been jailed for six years and eight months after admitting serious sexual offences against a woman in Southport.

Klintis Duarta, 28, appeared at Liverpool Crown Court today, Wednesday 16 September, where he was sentenced after admitting attempted rape and sexual assault.

He will also serve a further four years on licence following his release.

Merseyside Police said Duarta, who is originally from Mozambique and was visiting the UK from Portugal, followed a woman into a block of flats in Southport on Sunday 21 June 2025.

The offences took place in the communal hallway of the building.

Following the incident, police launched an investigation and Duarta was arrested at Liverpool John Lennon Airport the following day as he attempted to leave the country.

In a Victim Personal Statement, the woman described the lasting impact the attack has had on her life, including suffering nightmares and feeling anxious when entering buildings.

She said she now takes extra precautions, checking her surroundings before opening doors and making sure doors have closed behind her.

Detective Superintendent Siobhan Russell described the incident as a “relentless and sustained assault” on a woman who had simply been visiting a friend.

She said the victim had shown immense courage, both in fighting off Duarta during the incident and in supporting the subsequent prosecution.

Police said they hope the sentence demonstrates how seriously sexual offences are treated and encouraged anyone who has experienced sexual abuse to come forward.

Anyone wishing to report a sexual offence can contact Merseyside Police on 101. In an emergency, always call 999.

Specialist confidential support is also available to victims of rape and sexual assault, whether or not they choose to make a report to police.

Rape and Sexual Abuse Support Merseyside provides support across Liverpool, Sefton and Wirral and can be contacted on 0151 558 1801.

Source: Merseyside Police