Lisburn, Northern Ireland – A man from Co Antrim has been sentenced to seven years in prison for a violent assault on his ex-partner, driven by jealousy. Dylan Robert Black, 26, was also given an additional three years on supervised release after being deemed a danger to the public. His co-accused, Danielle Elizabeth Carson, 36, received a suspended 45-month sentence for her involvement in the attack.
The incident occurred on June 30, 2021, when Black gained access to his ex-partner’s apartment complex in Belfast with the help of Carson. Black confronted his victim in the building, leading to a physical altercation that left the victim battered and in need of medical attention. The victim’s support worker intervened and alerted the police to the situation, leading to the arrests of Black and Carson.
During the trial, it was revealed that Black had a history of violence and had previously violated non-molestation orders against his ex-partner. Carson, on the other hand, was found guilty of assaulting the victim but was not accused of using a weapon during the attack. Despite denying the assault during police interviews, both Black and Carson were convicted based on evidence provided by witnesses and CCTV footage.
The judge overseeing the case, Patricia Smyth, handed down the sentences, emphasizing the severity of the crimes committed. Smyth acknowledged the damage inflicted on the victim and stressed the importance of holding the perpetrators accountable for their actions. Carson was given a suspended sentence due to what the judge described as a “complete turnaround” in her life, but warned her of the consequences of any future offenses.
The victim, who suffered injuries to her head and body during the assault, expressed confusion and disbelief over the attack. She emphasized the traumatic impact the incident had on her and highlighted the need for justice to be served. The court’s decision to impose substantial prison terms on Black and Carson reflects the gravity of the offense and serves as a reminder of the importance of upholding the law and protecting victims of domestic violence.