In Bridgend, Wales, a disturbing incident unfolded as a 73-year-old grandfather, Barry Reed, attempted to stab his daughter with a screwdriver and headbutted her in the face, resulting in a broken nose. The altercation also involved physical violence towards his granddaughter, Alisha Daly, at his home on Bower Street, Kenfig Hill. The incident occurred on August 19 the previous year when Reed’s daughter and granddaughter visited him to address an argument he had with another daughter.
Initially calm, Reed quickly became aggressive, hurling verbal abuse at his family members before escalating to physical violence. The altercation saw him wielding a screwdriver, attempting to stab his daughter, and causing a cut to her skin. He proceeded to push his daughter, punch her in the stomach, and headbutt her, resulting in a broken nose. His granddaughter tried to intervene, leading to a physical scuffle that left Reed falling over a bed.
Following these disturbing events, Barry Reed was found guilty of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and affray. During his sentencing at Cardiff Crown Court, the court acknowledged Reed’s previous good character but condemned his actions as a frightening experience for his family members. Reed received a two-year community order, a 20-day rehabilitation activity requirement, and was ordered to pay costs amounting to £705.
In victim impact statements, both Emma Daly and Alisha Daly expressed their distress and shock at the incident. Emma shared her disappointment in her father’s behaviour and the impact it had on their family dynamics, while Alisha revealed how the altercation with her grandfather has been her only physical fight. In mitigation, Reed’s lawyer, Rhodri Chudleigh, highlighted his client’s age and health issues, as well as recent personal losses.
The sentencing judge, Lucy Crowther, highlighted the traumatic nature of the incident for the victims, emphasizing the breach of trust within the family. She noted the impact on the victims’ affection and loyalty towards the defendant. Despite the family rifts, the court recognised the victims’ devotion to Reed. The incident serves as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of family violence and abuse.