KEITH RIZZO SENTENCED IN BRECHIN FOR BRUTAL MURDER OF NEOMI SMITH

In a tragic and disturbing case that has shocked the community of Brechin, Keith Rizzo has been handed a severe prison sentence of at least 22 years for the murder of his girlfriend, Neomi Smith. The incident took place inside her home in Brechin, where Rizzo carried out a violent and relentless attack that ultimately ended her life.

During the court proceedings, it was revealed that Rizzo subjected Ms. Smith to a brutal assault involving choking and multiple stab wounds. The attack, which occurred in June of the previous year, left Ms. Smith with dozens of injuries, illustrating the extreme violence of the incident. The court heard that Ms. Smith, a 23-year-old care worker originally from Aberdeen, was defenseless during the attack, which was characterized by the judge, Lady Rae, as a 'savage, vicious and prolonged attack on a defenseless young woman.'

Rizzo appeared in court via a video link from prison to face sentencing. During this appearance, he attempted to shift blame by claiming that two other men were responsible for Ms. Smith’s death. However, the court dismissed this assertion as a 'most fanciful account,' emphasizing that the evidence pointed directly to Rizzo’s involvement.

Further evidence painted a troubling picture of Ms. Smith’s relationship with Rizzo. It was revealed that she had been too frightened to leave him earlier in their relationship. She confided in friends about instances where Rizzo had physically hit her and belittled her, indicating a pattern of domestic abuse and control. A neighbor who tried to intervene during the attack described the scene as a 'battle,' with debris and broken glass scattered across the flat, and a knife found near Ms. Smith’s leg, underscoring the brutality of the assault.

It was also noted that Rizzo had a prior conviction for domestic abuse against a previous partner, which further underscored his violent tendencies and history of abusive behavior. The court took into account his possession of a knife and the violent nature of his actions when delivering the sentence. Ultimately, the judge emphasized the severity of the crimes committed and the tragic loss of Ms. Smith’s life, leading to a lengthy prison term for Rizzo, reflecting the gravity of his actions and the need for justice.