ROTHERHAM MAN SENTENCED FOR LETHAL STABBING OF WIFE AFTER ABUSIVE MARRIAGE
The man separated from a woman who was tragically found with fatal stab wounds at her Rotherham residence has been handed a life sentence for her murder.Julie Ann Gallagher, 41 years old, was found deceased at her house on Foljambe Road in Eastwood in March 2010.
Her former husband, George Gallagher, 55, living on Eldon Road, was convicted of her murder by a jury at Sheffield Crown Court and was ordered to serve a minimum of 20 years in prison.
The family described him as an "evil, dominating man." He was also found guilty of assaulting Julie severely in 2009.
Her cause of death was determined to be a single stab wound to the chest.
Court proceedings revealed that she endured an "abusive married life," which ended with a serious attack in November 2009.
While Gallagher was on bail for that assault, he returned to her home with intent to kill.
Prosecutors demonstrated that he manipulated Julie into letting him inside, then used a knife to threaten and ultimately fatally stab her.
The family expressed relief at the conviction but also said they still seek answers, criticizing Gallagher’s persistent lack of remorse and describing him as an "evil, dominating and controlling man who has shown no compassion or remorse since Julie’s death." Detective Superintendent Colin Fisher commended the bravery of three of Gallagher’s previous partners, who provided evidence that highlighted his brutality.
