Surviving the Unthinkable: A Woman’s Courageous Story

“The abuse got so bad that when he went to pick up a takeaway, I would fear for the person serving him.” These chilling words come from a courageous survivor who endured the harrowing violence of Daniel Wide, a convicted sex offender and domestic abuser. In an act of bravery, she has waived her right to lifelong anonymity to shed light on the sadistic treatment she suffered and warn others about the dangers posed by Wide.
The survivor, a woman from Cardiff, recalls the moment her life changed forever when she reconnected with Wide in August . Their chance meeting led to a relationship that spiraled into a nightmare of manipulation, violence, and degradation. She described how Wide exploited her mental vulnerability, viewing her as a “slave” and using psychological tactics to control her. “He made out he was helping me at the beginning,” she said, “but it was all part of his plan to manipulate me.”
Wide’s abuse escalated rapidly. He introduced drugs into her life as a form of escapism from the torment he inflicted. At one point, she likened her experience to “Stockholm syndrome,” feeling trapped and emotionally bonded to her abuser despite knowing the harm he caused. She recounted horrifying incidents of sexual violence, including being woken in the middle of the night to find him assaulting her using household items. “His face looked unhuman and manic,” she said, describing one particularly traumatic event.
After years of enduring abuse, the survivor found strength to leave Wide, but his harassment continued. She began recording his behavior as evidence, ultimately capturing audio of him threatening rape—a threat he carried out in an attack so brutal it left her with lasting physical injuries requiring potential surgery. Her decision to report him in July marked a turning point. “I think that is what saved my life; actually being believed by the police,” she said, praising South Wales Police for their support and dedication.
Wide was arrested on July , , and later pleaded guilty to charges of rape and sexual assault by penetration. On April , , Cardiff Crown Court sentenced him to an extended 15-year sentence— years in prison and five years on extended license. He was also given a restraining order preventing contact with his victim indefinitely and required to sign the sex offender register for life.
This conviction is not Wide’s first brush with the law. In , he served over a year in prison for stalking another woman in Tunbridge Wells—a history that underscores his dangerous pattern of misogyny and violence. The survivor expressed concern about his hatred for women: “He absolutely despises women… He’s really misogynistic.”
Despite her ordeal, the survivor is now focusing on recovery and rebuilding her life. She has achieved sobriety and is prioritizing therapy and self-care. “I’m forcing myself to learn to love myself and be happy,” she said, determined to move forward while raising awareness about domestic abuse.
Her story serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of seeking help and reporting abuse.