Daniel Halstead, 39, has been branded a controlling, violent bully after tormenting his ex-girlfriend with a campaign of abuse. The Accrington man was sentenced to eight years at Preston Crown Court today (23 January) for a string of terrifying offences.
Halstead’s abuse began in January 2019 when he strangled his victim inside a property in Accrington. Although she did not report the incident at the time, Halstead was jailed later that day for an unrelated assault.
The nightmare continued even during and after his prison term. In September 2023, his victim ended their relationship after discovering his affair.
Halstead did not accept the breakup. He bombarded his ex with gifts and declarations of love despite being involved with other women. His threats escalated after another woman he was seeing became pregnant in late 2024. He repeatedly threatened his ex in person, via phone calls, and through text messages.
In a chilling moment in front of her son, Halstead warned, “If any single man comes near you, you’ll both end up in a box.”
The victim lived in constant fear. Anxiety affected her sleep and health, causing her to drop from size 14 to size six. In March 2025, Halstead stalked her to a friend’s home and waited outside her house, shouting threats. He bombarded her with calls and texts demanding to know her whereabouts. So frightened, she sent photos to prove she was safe.
On Valentine’s Day, Halstead appeared at her workplace with flowers but continued sending messages, forcing her to play along. One message read: “Just watching you lol, it’s nice when you don’t know I’m there haha.”
His violence escalated at her son’s football match when he head-butted her and attempted to punch her mother.
Halstead was arrested on 18 March 2025 and charged with coercive control, assault, and death threats. His trial in October at Preston Crown Court found him guilty on all counts.
He now faces eight years behind bars plus a lifetime restraining order to keep him away from his victim. A dangerous bully is finally off the streets.
Originally published by UKNIP.
