BELFAST — A Brooks man was sentenced to 14 years in prison in Belfast Unified Criminal Court July 27. 

Arthur Williams, 24, was arrested Nov. 30, following a report that he had sexually assaulted a woman several nights before.

The investigation began Nov. 29, when Maine State Police were contacted by the staff of Inland Hospital in Waterville. The caller advised that the hospital was treating a woman who was about to undergo a rape examination after reporting her boyfriend had assaulted her, according to court documents.

The victim told responding Deputy Benjamin Sweeney that Williams had assaulted her at their shared residence, with a pair of nunchucks on Thanksgiving night.

The victim reportedly stated that Williams had struck her in the arms, legs, and buttocks with the weapon, before holding her down by the neck with one hand, which resulted in impaired vision. The victim was able to report the assault when she traveled to her mother’s home with Williams, later telling her mother she did not want to leave with him again. At that time Williams left the residence alone, according to court documents.

Williams left the victim with significant bruising, which was documented by law enforcement. Trooper Sweeney was also able to locate the weapon after the victim described it, and its location in the residence.

Sweeney interviewed Williams Nov. 30, at which time he denied assaulting the complainant. Williams did acknowledge striking the victim with the object, but reportedly said it was consensual.

Williams was arrested, but made “suicidal statements” prior to being booked into jail, which required he be transported to a hospital for further evaluation, according to an affidavit.

Williams was convicted of all three counts July 27.

For gross sexual assault, Williams was sentenced to 14 years in prison with all but five years suspended and six years of probation. Williams will serve five years in prison for aggravated assault, and two years for domestic violence assault.

Williams was previously convicted of violating a protection order in April, 2012.

Erica Thoms can be reached at news@penbaypilot.com