HUSEYIN KALYONCU SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR BRUTAL MURDER IN EDENBRIDGE

Huseyin Kalyoncu, a man from Edenbridge, has been sentenced to life imprisonment after being convicted of the murder of his disabled girlfriend, Sonia Parker. The court determined that Kalyoncu carried out a savage and relentless assault that ultimately led to her death, and he will be required to serve a minimum of 19 years before he becomes eligible for parole.

Details presented during the trial revealed that Sonia Parker was subjected to an extremely violent attack by Kalyoncu during an argument over her use of WhatsApp. Witnesses described Sonia as a kind and friendly individual, despite her disabilities stemming from birth complications, including a cyst on her brain, and her recent recovery from a serious car accident. Despite her physical challenges, she continued to work and maintain her independence.

Prosecutors outlined the extent of her injuries, which included 24 fractures across her ribs, chest, and back, along with damage to vital organs such as her liver and spleen. The severity of her injuries was shocking, and the court heard that Kalyoncu had initially told emergency call handlers that he had only “hit her a little,” attempting to downplay the violence. When police arrived, they found him visibly distressed and panicked, and he later admitted to assaulting Sonia out of jealousy.

Further investigation uncovered that Sonia Parker had been a victim of financial exploitation, with Kalyoncu having received thousands of pounds from her for shopping and other expenses. Court reports also revealed that he had sent her abusive messages, calling her “stupid” and issuing threats. Evidence showed that Sonia had visible signs of domestic violence shortly before her death, highlighting the ongoing abuse she endured.

At the scene of the attack, Kalyoncu claimed to have been “fighting and punching” her and explained that he had “lost control” during the altercation. Despite his efforts to resuscitate her, Sonia succumbed to her injuries caused by blunt-force trauma inflicted during the assault. The judge described the attack as “brutal and senseless,” emphasizing the severity of the crime. Although Kalyoncu initially pleaded guilty to manslaughter, he denied any intent to kill, but the court found that his pattern of increasingly violent behavior had culminated in this tragic outcome.

The judge paid tribute to Sonia Parker, describing her as “much-loved, generous, and brave,” and expressed deep sorrow for her family, who had spoken of her as a victim of ongoing abuse. Kalyoncu, who had a prior conviction for theft from his homeland, was also sentenced to be on lifelong licence upon release. Health professionals testified that the injuries Sonia sustained had begun approximately a month before her death, indicating a prolonged period of suffering.

Finally, the lead officer in the investigation stated that Kalyoncu’s actions had caused a campaign of physical and emotional abuse, and his inability to control his temper had inflicted lasting trauma on Sonia’s family. The court’s verdict underscores the gravity of his crimes and the tragic loss of Sonia Parker’s life, highlighting the devastating consequences of domestic violence and unchecked rage.