Five years imprisonment for domestic abuser from Welwyn Garden City

A man who left his partner in fear and without food after spending her money has been sentenced to five years imprisonment at St Albans Crown Court.

Daniel Richards, aged 31, of Ludwick Way in Welwyn Garden City pleaded guilty to five counts of actual bodily harm between July and September 2021, for which he received four years imprisonment.  He received an additional year in prison for coercive and controlling behaviour which happened in September 2021.  He was also sentenced for two counts of assault by beating between July and August 2021, for which he was sentenced to a total of 7 months, which will run concurrently.

The court heard how he had taken his new partner’s money, leaving her unable to pay her rent or buy food for herself or her child.

Detective Sergeant Jenny Stredwick-Henry from the Domestic Abuse Investigation and Safeguarding Unit said: “This was a relatively new relationship which left the victim in constant fear for her life.  He would regularly physically assault her and on one occasion, punched her in the ribs and threatened to kill her if she left him.  He started to control every aspect of her life and prevented her from seeing her family and friends.  She went from being an outgoing young woman to one who was timid, and frightened.  Thankfully, she was courageous enough to confide in a friend and we were then able to intervene, working with other agencies, which included vital support from an Independent Domestic Violence Advisor.”

She said: “We are really pleased he received a substantial sentence as he poses a danger to women. This will now give the victim an opportunity to rebuild her life.”

Once he is released from prison, he will be given an indefinite restraining order.

Anyone who has any concerns about domestic abuse can contact the Independent Domestic Abuse Advisor service on 0300 790 6772. In an emergency, always call 999. If you are afraid or unable to speak, call 999 from a mobile and press 5, 5.