After years of controlling and coercive behavior, one woman finally faced the terrifying culmination of her ex-boyfriend’s jealousy.
Daniel Lytollis, 35, unleashed his anger in a shocking act of violence when he repeatedly stabbed the doorbell camera at his former partner’s family home in Carlisle, Cumbria.
The attack, captured in chilling detail on the doorbell camera, shows the moment Lytollis stabbed the device 12 times, swearing and lashing out as he vented his rage.
The Breaking Point
The violence came after the woman ended their relationship, a step that Lytollis could not tolerate.
He first went to her father’s home uninvited and then returned a second time, this time armed with a knife.
During this second visit, he not only targeted the doorbell camera but also caused damage to the victim’s car parked in the driveway.
These acts of aggression prompted the victim to contact the police, marking the tipping point in a long pattern of abuse.
A Pattern of Control
Police investigations revealed a disturbing history of coercive behavior.
Lytollis had followed his ex at work, demanded proof of her daily movements, and subjected her to threatening messages, voicemails, and videos.
One video even showed him carrying a knife in his pocket.
Officers discovered that he had escalated from psychological control to outright intimidation and physical threats, making the danger both real and immediate.
Arrest and Charges
Lytollis was arrested at his home, where police found cocaine, a machete, and other weapons.
He also faced allegations of potential drink-driving after empty alcohol bottles were discovered in his car, though he refused to provide a breath sample.
Ultimately, he was charged with seven offences, including coercive and controlling behavior, two counts of criminal damage, possession of a bladed article in public, possession of an offensive weapon in private, possession of a class A drug, and failing to provide a breath test.
Sentencing and Restrictions
On Thursday, Lytollis was sentenced to two years and ten months in prison.
Additionally, he received a five-year restraining order and was disqualified from driving for 25 months.
During sentencing, Judge Nicholas Barker highlighted the “irrationally jealous” and aggressive nature of his behavior but noted that Lytollis had expressed remorse.
Police Response and Victim Support
Detective Constable Karen Minnion of Cumberland CID emphasized the seriousness of Lytollis’s actions.
She noted that he had subjected his victim to ongoing threats and property damage and acknowledged the difficulties victims face when coming forward.
“This case shows how abusive behaviors can escalate,” DC Minnion said.
“We encourage anyone who experiences domestic offences to contact police, and we work closely with agencies to provide tailored support throughout investigations.
These offences will not be tolerated.”
Lessons on Escalating Abuse
This case underscores the dangers of controlling and jealous behavior and the importance of reporting abuse before it escalates to violence.
It also highlights the role of law enforcement and support agencies in protecting victims and holding perpetrators accountable.
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