A MAN who is due to be sentenced today (Monday) for murder has been labelled a “bully” by police.
On Friday jurors found Jack Wall guilty of murdering his former girlfriend Amelia Arnold at their flat in Hadrian’s Walk, Stevenage.
Wall, who had admitted obstructing a coroner but denied murder, beat the 19-year-old to death with a dumbbell bar in November last year in front of their young daughter before burying Miss Arnold’s body in a shallow grave in Hatfield.
The 22-year-old is due to appear before Blackfriars Crown Court in London this morning to be sentenced by judge Aiden Marron QC, along with his uncle Joseph Potter.
Potter, 41, of Sycamore Avenue in Bletchley, gave evidence in the trial and has already pleaded guilty to assisting an offender and obstructing a coroner.
Speaking after the unanimous verdict, detective inspector John Arthur – who investigated the case – said: “Amelia had been the victim of physical and mental abuse. She was controlled by Jack Wall, who was a bully.
“He cruelly and brutally took Amelia’s life leaving their daughter without a mum.
“I would like to pay tribute to Amelia’s family. Not only have they tragically lost Amelia, Jack Wall has put them through the harrowing ordeal of having to listen to evidence in court, which they did with great dignity.
“We understand it can be extremely difficult for victims to seek help, but I would like to reassure anyone suffering this form of abuse that cases are dealt with sensitively and robustly by police and would urge victims to come forward to report any incidents.”
The police have urged anyone who is in immediate danger of domestic abuse or knows someone else who is to call 999.
The constabulary, in partnership with organisations including Hertfordshire County Council, has launched www.hertssunflower.org to help offer support and advice for those experiencing domestic abuse, rape or sexual assault.
Those affected or concerned by domestic abuse can also call the Hertfordshire Domestic Abuse Helpline on 08 088 088 088 on Monday to Friday 10am-10pm.
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