A harrowing crime unfolded in Manchester when Courtney Adams, 32, broke into a student's city centre apartment, brandishing a knife. After threatening the young woman, he forced her to hand over cash and proceeded to commit multiple assaults.

Adams coerced the student to withdraw further money from a nearby cashpoint. He then returned her home, forcing entry back through her window.

Earlier, Adams had broken into another flat on Great Western Street, stealing valuable items. Despite his escape via a kitchen window, his actions were caught on CCTV, leading to his capture.

The incident took place in late November last year when Adams failed to steal a bicycle and instead stole from a car in a nearby car park. In the early hours on November 29, he broke into the student's flat on Great Western Street.

The assault has left the victim traumatised, forcing her to leave Manchester. Adams, with a history of criminal behavior, was found guilty of multiple charges and sentenced to 20 years in prison.

Detective Inspector Kat McKeown praised the victim's bravery, stating that her actions led to a successful conviction, helping safeguard the community.