DERBY MAN JAILED FOR WIFE'S 'UNPROVOKED' MURDER
Paul Sherratt, a man aged 57, has been convicted and sentenced for the murder of his wife, Jane Sherratt, who was a former deputy head teacher.The incident occurred in May at their home in Spondon, Derby, where Paul launched a brutal and unprovoked attack on Jane.
She suffered severe head injuries and was taken to hospital, where she spent months fighting for her life before passing away four months after the assault.
During the attack on 7 January, Sherratt also injured himself and was hospitalized.
Initially charged with attempted murder, the charge was later upgraded to murder after Jane's death on 7 May.
Investigating officers described the attack as 'totally unprovoked,' emphasizing that Jane had no means to defend herself and that her husband offered no aid after the assault.
Det Sgt Lesley Smith stated, 'The attack was totally unprovoked and Jane had no means to defend herself.' Despite contacting emergency services hours after the attack, Paul did not assist his wife as she lay severely injured.
The prosecution highlighted the brutality of the assault and the fact that Paul never provided an explanation for his actions.
Jane Sherratt was a highly regarded educator and was loved by her community, having worked at Springfield Primary School for nearly 20 years.
Her head teacher expressed hope that the sentencing 'would bring a degree of closure to what has been a very sad few months.' The case has brought significant attention to domestic violence and its tragic consequences.
