A woman has been accused of murdering her ex-husband, Danny Cahalane, in a brutal acid attack. The trial, taking place at Winchester Crown Court, has unveiled a series of text messages that reveal tension and threats between the couple prior to the incident. Cahalane, aged 38, died on May 3, 2025, after an attack on his home in Plymouth, which occurred in the early hours of February 21, 2025.
The prosecution, led by Joanna Martin KC, has outlined a complex web of drug-related debts and criminal associations surrounding Cahalane. According to court statements, he was a known drug dealer who owed a substantial amount of money to higher-ups in the trade. The court has learned that Cahalane admitted to gambling with drug profits, including funds that were meant for his drug boss, known as Ryan Kennedy, who is believed to be residing in Dubai.
The text messages presented to the jury reveal a troubling dynamic between Cahalane and his ex-wife, Paris Wilson. In the weeks leading up to an alleged kidnapping attempt on January 19, 2025, Wilson communicated with Cahalane about various topics, including child care and financial matters. At one point, she warned him to “be careful who you disrespect,” suggesting that he was in danger due to his behavior towards others.
During the trial, the jury reviewed messages exchanged between Wilson and her mother, Karen Wilson, which included discussions about Cahalane and hints at illegal activities. Paris expressed her frustration with Cahalane’s financial situation and his lifestyle, indicating a deep-seated animosity. In one message, she mentioned, “Frost is losing his mind,” reflecting the pressure Cahalane faced from his creditors.
Witness testimony has also played a significant role in the trial. A witness, Dave Huddy, reported observing an incident on January 19, 2025, where he saw three men chasing Cahalane’s car. He described the scene in detail, noting the fear evident in Cahalane’s demeanor. This incident aligns with the kidnapping allegation that has critical implications for Wilson and her co-defendants.
The prosecution has presented evidence of a series of threats exchanged between Cahalane and Wilson after the kidnapping attempt. Cahalane expressed concern that Wilson was sharing his location with dangerous individuals, while Wilson accused him of being paranoid. Their exchanges often escalated into accusations of betrayal and manipulation, illustrating the volatile nature of their relationship.
Alongside Wilson, seven other individuals have been implicated in Cahalane’s murder, including five men from London and two women from Plymouth. Each defendant faces serious charges, including murder and manslaughter. The ongoing trial is expected to delve deeper into the circumstances surrounding Cahalane’s death and the roles each defendant may have played.
As the legal proceedings continue, the case draws attention not only for its tragic outcome but also for the exploration of themes such as betrayal, criminal behavior, and the consequences of a lifestyle intertwined with drugs and violence. The jury is tasked with determining the extent of each defendant’s involvement in the events leading to Cahalane’s death, with their verdict likely to have lasting repercussions on the lives of those accused.
