MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR SISTER'S MURDER OVER MONEY IN LEIGH ON SEA
Kevin Shepherd, aged 55, was handed a life sentence on Monday after being found guilty of murdering his sister during a dispute over money.The victim, 64-year-old Sharon Butler, was killed during an altercation at their family home with their mother present.
The incident occurred in November of last year, when Shepherd and his sister took their argument outside the house in Leigh on Sea, Essex, to continue.
Shepherd, who was unemployed at the time, returned to the house and then grabbed a knife before leaving again.
Prosecutor Simon Spence KC explained that their mother heard Sharon shout “mum,” just before Shepherd re-entered the house and admitted to killing his sister.
Shepherd then contacted police, claiming his sister was unconscious.
When authorities arrived, they found her covered with a tarpaulin, and despite medical efforts, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
A knife was found in a nearby plant pot.
The court sentenced Shepherd to life imprisonment after he pleaded guilty to the murder.
He is required to serve at least 13 years and six months before he becomes eligible for parole.
Following the sentencing, Sharon’s family issued a heartfelt statement, expressing their sorrow: “Losing our daughter and sister has devastated us.
Our lives will never be the same without her.
She remains in our thoughts forever.
We ask for privacy as we grieve.” During the investigation, Detective Chief Inspector Terry Balding remarked: “Our team’s thoughts are with Sharon’s loved ones.
I hope that, although no sentence can fully undo the crime, justice has been served.
Kevin Shepherd’s brutal act has been acknowledged through this verdict.
I also thank my team for their professionalism and commitment in handling this complex case.”
