Cheryl Tweedy’s harasser has been sentenced to a year in prison and received an extended lifetime restraining order. Daniel Bannister, aged 50, caused distress to the former Girls Aloud member when he appeared at her residence in Buckinghamshire for the fourth time in June, as disclosed in Reading Crown Court.
Bannister was convicted of violating a previous restraining order, leading to his one-year imprisonment today. This marks his third incarceration for attempting to reach Cheryl, 42. During sentencing, Judge Blake emphasized Bannister’s high risk of repeating offenses and the necessity for immediate incarceration due to his disregard for Tweedy’s well-being.
Although Cheryl did not personally attend the court proceedings, a statement delivered by prosecutor Leandra Smith conveyed her shock and fear when Bannister trespassed on her property in Chalfont, Bucks, for the fourth occasion this year. She expressed the impact of Bannister’s actions on herself and her young child, highlighting the need for increased security measures and the emotional toll she has endured.
In his defense, Mr. Allen Wellington argued that Bannister did not display any violent behavior towards Ms. Tweedy. Bannister, previously convicted of manslaughter in 2012, was previously sentenced to 16 weeks in March after breaching a restraining order by returning to Cheryl’s home in December. He had also received a four-month jail term for targeting her residence earlier.
The court was informed that Bannister made repeated visits to Cheryl’s property, claiming association with her and even asking for a drink. Despite his background as a former figure skater, Bannister denied any mental health issues.
Formerly known as Cheryl Cole, Cheryl was once married to ex-footballer Ashley Cole, with the couple divorcing over a decade ago.