Monster jailed for stabbing ex and tormenting her for eight years
Darryl Harding, 53, from Welwyn Garden City, has been locked up for seven years for stabbing his ex-partner and a further 18 months for controlling and coercive behaviour. He also received six months for trying to escape custody, all sentences running concurrently.
Indefinite restraining order protects victim
Harding’s former partner, in her 40s, will be protected by an indefinite restraining order. He must also serve an extended licence of four years after his prison term ends.
Eight years of terror and abuse
The court heard Harding inflicted ongoing physical, emotional, and psychological abuse on the woman for eight long years. She was left so traumatised she considered ending her own life.
“This is one of the worst cases of domestic abuse I have ever seen,” said Detective Constable Erik Gale.
“After stabbing her and himself in January, Harding told her they would both die that night. He controlled her every move and used gaslighting to break her spirit.”
Violent outbursts and sickening cruelty
Judge Stephen Warner condemned Harding’s erratic, remorseless behaviour. The abuser destroyed TVs, smashed mirrors, punched holes in walls, and even smashed his victim’s phone to isolate her from friends and family.
In a chilling act of cruelty, Harding set fire to her kitchen curtains and threw two pet turtles into the garden where they died.
Repeated abuse despite bail conditions
Though arrested in late 2020, Harding continued to abuse his ex after release. The pair met up at a pub, where he resumed emotional and psychological torment before trying to strangle her in a hotel.
In January this year, Harding stabbed her in the neck and wrist, then stabbed himself and declared they would both die. He escaped police custody briefly before being rearrested.
Police hail courageous victim
“Harding is violent, controlling, and deceptive,” said DC Gale. “I’m pleased justice has been done. The victim was extremely brave to come forward and is now getting support to rebuild her life.”
“If you experience domestic abuse, please seek help. Specialist officers and helplines are available.”
Get help – you are not alone
- Coercive control covers psychological, physical, sexual, financial and emotional abuse.
- Clare’s Law lets you check if a partner has a violent history. Hertfordshire residents can apply online.
- Victims can contact Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline on 08 088 088 088 (9am–9pm weekdays, 9am–4pm weekends).
- If your life is at risk, always call 999.
