The family of Sally Turner say they have been robbed of a mother and grandmother and condemned the "barbarity and callous actions" of husband, following the conclusion of his trial.
Harry Turner, 54, was found guilty of murder at Teesside Crown Court today (Tuesday) after he stabbed her 78 times. He pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted manslaughter on the grounds of loss of control, which the Crown did not accept.
A jury found Turner guilty of murder and he will now serve a minimum of 17 years in prison. Grandmother Sally was found dead with multiple stab wounds by her daughter with Mr Turner's wedding ring lying nearby.
Read more: Durham postman who stabbed wife 78 times found guilty of murder
A statement issued on behalf of Sally's family said: "The level of barbarity and callous actions inflicted upon Sally has robbed our family of a mother and grandmother, and all of our lives will be changed forever. The outcome is exactly what the family hoped for and today we have seen justice served.
"Sally’s family would like to thank Durham Police and the prosecution team for their swift response and hard work to bring this case to a close, finally. We would also like to thank the family liaison team, especially Helen, who has gone above and beyond with the task of keeping the family informed and supported which was made difficult by the distance involved.
"All our lives have been affected by this and we will forever remember Sally. May she rest in peace."
Detective Superintendent Dave Ashton from Durham Constabulary, who led the investigation, said: "This case is extremely disturbing given the level of violence used against Sally Turner and her loss of life as a result of a brutal attack from her husband, Harry Turner. This has had a devastating impact upon Sally’s family who are now trying to rebuild their lives.
"Sally’s family and friends have shown enormous courage in supporting the prosecution which has resulted in the conviction of Harry Turner. This is an extreme example of violence against women which Durham Constabulary are fully committed to ending by working closely with other agencies and members of our communities.
"We encourage anyone concerned about domestic abuse or coercive and controlling behaviour to report the matter to the police or seek appropriate professional support."
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