SOUTHEND MAN JAILED FOR LIFE AFTER BRUTAL EX-PARTNER MURDER
Martin Bunch, who is 44 years old, was convicted of the murder of his former partner, Jeanette Goodwin.The killing occurred on 24 July 2011 at her residence in Southend, Essex, where Bunch stabbed her around 30 times in front of her husband.
The court was told that Bunch had previously been detained for removing an identification tag he was required to wear to keep him away from Mrs Goodwin.
Despite this, magistrates renewed his bail during a hearing on 20 July, allowing him to remain free.
After being found guilty at Chelmsford Crown Court, Bunch was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 27 years.
The presiding judge condemned his actions as 'loathsome and disgusting.' Essex Police's Detective Chief Inspector Simon Werrett described Bunch as 'wicked, callous, and unrepentant for the murder.' The case also examined the police's interactions with Mrs Goodwin prior to her death, noting she had previously reported Bunch’s harassment.
Though he was arrested, he was later released on bail.
Her family stated that the tragedy might have been prevented if the legal system had given more weight to her earlier reports of violence.
They highlighted that Bunch ignored bail conditions by contacting her and had even cut off his electronic monitoring tag, demonstrating his flouting of legal restrictions.
Bunch’s conviction followed a four-week trial, during which he was described as having carried out a 'brutal and determined attack.' The family expressed concern that, despite Bunch’s troubled history, he had been granted bail—something they believe contributed to her death.
The case raised questions about the justice system's ability to prevent such violent outcomes.
