EAST KILBRIDE MAN JAILED FOR MURDER OF GIRLFRIEND
A man convicted of strangling his girlfriend and then slashing her throat has been given a life sentence.Daryll Paterson, aged 36, is required to serve a minimum of 18 years before being considered for parole.
He previously admitted to the murder of Louise Aitchison, 33, at their residence in East Kilbride on April 28 of the previous year.
The victim, who used to work as a dental nurse, had contacted the police earlier that evening to request their intervention to remove Paterson from their home.
During proceedings at the High Court in Glasgow, Lady Stacey highlighted that Louise had contributed positively to her community both locally and internationally, and had much to look forward to.
She pointed out that Louise was entitled to seek love and support from Paterson, but he broke her trust and ultimately took her life through his actions.
The judge stressed that Paterson must now live with the burden of his guilt.
The defense pointed out Paterson’s troubled childhood and his problems with alcohol.
Evidence revealed that on the night of the murder, Louise had suggested calling the police to evict Paterson, which he did, leaving the flat.
However, he then confided in a friend that he had done something terrible and believed his life was over.
Additionally, Paterson admitted to his sister that he had murdered Louise, describing an argument and subsequent violence.
Police discovered Louise’s body in the flat, revealing neck injuries with an almost eight-inch wound and a fractured neck bone.
The post-mortem confirmed the cause of death.
The court was told that the relationship started after they met walking their dogs, and they moved in together in March 2020.
The killing occurred during a heated argument that escalated, with Paterson recalling having his hand on her throat and her wielding a knife, which led to the fatal struggle.
