**Pregnant Woman Sentenced After Assault on Pensioner at Cardiff Funeral**
A family funeral at the Conservative Club in Splott, Cardiff, descended into chaos last year when a pregnant mourner violently assaulted a pensioner, leaving her with severe, long-term health complications. The incident, which occurred on the afternoon of 9 June 2023, has led to criminal proceedings and renewed discussion about violence at family gatherings.
Danielle Oliver, a 39-year-old mother of three from Braunton Avenue, Llanrumney, attacked 65-year-old Belinda Stickland during what was supposed to be a sombre occasion. Cardiff Crown Court heard that following the assault, Ms Stickland needed urgent hospital treatment, having suffered several fractured ribs and a punctured lung which resulted in persistent breathing problems and the development of emphysema.
The court was told by prosecutor Kirsten Murphy that Oliver’s assault was both intentional and prolonged. Witnesses described how, after forcing the pensioner to the floor, Oliver continued to gesticulate at her until staff intervened and physically removed her from the premises. The impact of the assault did not end there, with Ms Stickland requiring fluid to be drained from her lungs and spending nine days in the University Hospital of Wales.
CCTV footage capturing the altercation was described in court, though not played. According to witness accounts, Oliver had been looking at her mobile before she turned her attention to Ms Stickland, then suddenly launched the violent attack. Upon her arrest on 13 June, Oliver answered all police questions with “no comment” and expressed disbelief as to the severity of the injuries caused.
Judge Simon Mills, overseeing the trial, highlighted the devastating impact single moments of violence can have. “Even brief acts of aggression can shatter lives,” he remarked, stressing that Oliver could easily have faced manslaughter charges had the consequences been even more dire. He spoke directly to the defendant, noting a lack of understanding from Oliver regarding the enormity of her actions and their aftermath.
During the proceedings, a moving victim impact statement was read out. Ms Stickland shared how the trauma had left her a shadow of her former self. “I was attending the funeral of a close friend. It changed my life in so many ways. It took my sparkle away,” she declared, adding that fear and isolation now dominate her life as a result of the assault. She questioned Oliver’s lack of remorse and outlined the emotional toll the incident continues to exact on her and her family.
Oliver’s legal representative, Dan Jones, told the court his client had not intended to inflict the level of harm suffered by Ms Stickland and that she felt remorse for her actions. He also revealed that Oliver cares for three children, one of whom is particularly dependent on her support.
Judge Mills imposed a sentence of 66 weeks’ imprisonment, suspended for two years. In addition, Oliver is prohibited by a restraining order from contacting Ms Stickland in any form for five years, and she must attend a 10-day rehabilitation programme. Notably, the judge decided not to order compensation payments, citing Oliver’s inability to pay a meaningful sum without prolonging the emotional impact for the victim.
Outside the court, Ms Stickland’s daughter Jinaise spoke to reporters, expressing relief that the case had concluded and her family could begin to move forward. Referring to the life-changing impact on her elderly mother, she said: “My mother is already closer to the coffin than most and she shouldn’t have to have anyone wanting to put her in there any sooner by assaulting her.”
This deeply distressing episode has sparked renewed calls for better support for vulnerable people at family events, and highlighted the unpredictable consequences of violent behaviour, regardless of the setting or the circumstances of those involved. The court’s outcome serves as a stark reminder of the far-reaching effects such acts can have on victims and their families.