CHELTENHAM OFFENDER JAILED FOR HEARTBREAKING PREGNANT GIRLFRIEND MURDER
Aston Robinson, aged 18 from Cheltenham, was found guilty of murdering his pregnant girlfriend, Kayleigh-Anne Palmer, who was 16 years old.Although he admitted to causing her death, Robinson denied a charge of murder, saying he only intended to 'teach her a lesson' about talking to other boys, and that he strangled her out of jealousy.
The case was tried at Bristol Crown Court, where Judge Neil Ford sentenced Robinson to life in prison with a minimum term of 14 years.
It was outlined during the trial that Robinson's motive stemmed from wanting to discipline her for associating with other boys, which led to the fatal assault.
The judge commented on Robinson's immaturity and inability to manage his anger as factors in the incident.
Shortly after the attack on April 2, Robinson’s sister found Kayleigh-Anne unconscious at a home in Cheltenham.
She was transported to Gloucestershire Royal Hospital, where medical staff unsuccessfully tried to save her and her unborn child, Lily-Rose, who was 24 weeks gestation.
The baby's heartbeat ceased the following day, and Kayleigh-Anne died on April 5 after doctors induced labor.
Though there was an allegation of child destruction relating to the unborn child, Robinson was acquitted of that charge.
Kayleigh-Anne’s family expressed that Lily-Rose would always be loved and welcomed, offering comfort that she rests peacefully alongside her mother.
In a statement, her family said, 'Justice has been served for Kayleigh, and we appreciate the jury’s decision, which will help us find closure during this difficult time.' They also remembered Kayleigh-Anne as someone who loved life and was known for her bright smile.
CCTV footage showed Robinson at a betting shop placing a wager while rescue efforts for Kayleigh-Anne and her unborn child were ongoing.
After the incident, Robinson surrendered to police custody.
During the proceedings, it emerged that he suffered from paranoia and jealousy, which influenced his actions.
When questioned about the deliberate nature of the strangulation, he admitted it was intentional, explaining, 'Yes, but not like that, only [for] a few seconds.
I wanted her to be quiet.' His actions and the evidence presented led to the life sentence, with a minimum of 14 years to serve before parole considerations.
