Beastly Ex Terrorises Woman and Son With Samurai Sword Attack
Darren Daniel, 34, has been locked up after a terrifying spree of violence against his ex-girlfriend and her 11-year-old son. The nightmare began when their two-year relationship ended earlier this year—prompting Daniel to unleash a reign of terror.
Brutal Home Invasion and Threats
On 25 March, Daniel forced his way into the woman’s home and launched a savage attack on her and her son, leaving the boy with head injuries. The victim told police that Daniel had previously threatened her with a firearm.
In the days that followed, Daniel bombarded his ex with threatening calls and messages. He warned her: “If you don’t withdraw your complaint, things will get bad.”
Midnight Break-In with Samurai Sword
The nightmare escalated on 5 April at 4am. Daniel and an accomplice smashed a patio door to break into the home while the woman and her son slept.
Wielding a samurai sword, Daniel snarled, “I’m going to kill you.” Thanks to a police manhunt, Daniel was caught hiding in a cupboard just seven hours later in Dunscroft.
“Daniel was coercive, controlling and violent. He posed a real risk to his victim, her son and her new partner,” said DC Stephen Barnes. “This strong case has brought him to justice.”
Justice Served: Nine Years Inside
Daniel pleaded guilty on 6 October. On Friday 13 November, Sheffield Crown Court sentenced him to nine years for the savage April attack. He received an additional two years for previous assaults, harassment, and witness intimidation – all to run consecutively.
Meanwhile, police are still hunting the second man involved in the break-in.
DI Anna Sedgwick from Doncaster’s domestic abuse unit praised the victim’s bravery. “Her courage made this possible,” she said. “I urge anyone suffering abuse to speak out and seek help. We’re committed to supporting victims and bringing abusers to justice.”
If you or someone you know is facing domestic abuse, contact the police immediately.
