Horror injuries in homophobic attack
A young woman was left bloodied and bruised in a homophobic attack in the Town End Farm area of Sunderland.
Charlie Graham was attacked by two men when she was walking home in the early hours of Saturday morning, January 11.
The 20-year-old was left bloodied and bruised following the attack which also saw her subjected to vile homophobic language.
The police have confirmed they are currently treating it as a hate crime.
Her mum, Michelle Storey, shared pictures of her daughter on Facebook asking: "Please share to help find the scumbags that did this to my daughter."
The post received thousands of shares and the community has come out in support of Charlie.
Charlie, who lives in Sunderland, posted on Facebook following the support the appeal received.
She said "To everyone that is concerned I’m doing much better atm, I am in a lot pain but I’m pushing through it, thanks you so much for all just get well soon but unfortunately this isn’t the first time
I’ve been jumped.
"I’ve been jumped five times before and the police don’t think there connected and are doing everything to find the people that done it."
A Northumbria Police spokesperson said: "Shortly before 1am on Saturday (January 11), we received a report of an assault on Blackwood
Road, Sunderland.
"It was reported that a woman was walking when she was attacked by two males who subjected her to homophobic language and caused injuries to her face, hands and knees.
"An investigation has been launched into the incident and officers are currently treating the assault as a suspected hate crime.
“Anyone with information is asked to call 101 quoting reference 46 110120 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111."
Echo readers went online to support Charlie with messages of goodwill.
Victoria Tori Humble said: “Just no need. Totally awful, hope they are found and charged.”
Liz Barron said: “This is shocking, hope they're caught. You don't deserve this.”
Dianne Connolly said: “Some horrible nasty people about hope you get well and they get caught.”