Lisburn, Northern Ireland – A man from Co Antrim has been sentenced to seven years in prison for violently assaulting his ex-partner out of jealousy. Dylan Robert Black, 26, received an additional three years on supervised release for posing a danger to the public. Black had admitted to charges of grievous bodily harm with intent, threats to kill, threats to damage property, common assault, and resisting police.
His co-accused, Danielle Elizabeth Carson, 36, from Belfast, received a 45-month suspended prison sentence after pleading guilty to grievous bodily harm with intent and possessing an offensive weapon with intent. The prosecution stated that on June 30, 2021, Black entered an apartment complex where his ex-partner lived and was assisted by Carson, who also resided in the building.
Witnesses reported seeing Black corner his victim, grabbing her by the neck and pushing her against a wall before forcing her back to her apartment. Carson, seen concealing a hammer, joined in the assault. The victim sustained serious injuries, including brain swelling, bleeding, lacerations, bruising, and visible markings from an attack with a foot.
Despite Black’s criminal history involving his ex-partner, including breaching non-molestation orders, assault, and criminal damage, the assault on the victim was admitted to be fueled by jealousy. Carson, although punching the victim, did not use the hammer. Both defendants denied the assaults during police interviews, with Carson attributing the attack to the victim associating with Catholics.
Judge Patricia Smyth imposed an extended prison term for Black, with a parole review at the halfway point. Carson, on the other hand, was spared immediate imprisonment due to personal progress and no further offenses. However, Judge Smyth warned Carson of imprisonment should she reoffend within the next three years, emphasizing the severity of the assault and the need for accountability.