GEMMA HAYTER MURDER: THREE JAILED FOR LIFE
Lady Justice Rafferty, presiding at the Old Bailey, described the murder as a 'vile' act of violence.She mandated that Booth serve a minimum of 21 years behind bars, while Daniel Newstead, aged 20, was sentenced to at least 20 years in prison.
Boyer, aged 18, received a minimum term of 16 years.
Additionally, Jessica Lynas and Duncan Edwards were both sentenced to 13 and 15 years respectively after being convicted of manslaughter.
Sue Prince, the mother of victim Miss Hayter, voiced her grief, stating she 'pitied her daughter's killers.' The judge detailed the horrific abuse inflicted on Gemma, including physical assaults, being forced to drink urine, and ultimately being suffocated when she sought help.
The court emphasized Booth's treatment of Gemma as akin to a toy, viewing her as both dependent and expendable.
An additional grotesque detail was her being stripped naked and abandoned at the scene, dying alone.
The court condemned the murder as a 'chronicle of heartlessness,' noting that the perpetrators had sunk even lower in their actions.
Outside the courtroom, Gemma’s family expressed their contentment with the sentences, aiming for closure.
Warwickshire Police acknowledged their officers' relentless dedication in resolving the case.