A BELFAST woman will serve at least 12 years in prison after being found guilty of murdering her abusive partner while he slept.
Julianne McIlwaine, of Hazel Close in Belfast, appeared before Belfast Crown Court this week for the murder of James Joseph Crossley in west Belfast in 2022.
Last October the 34-year-old was given a life sentence after being found guilty of Mr Crossley’s murder.
On May 20 she was told she will serve a minimum of 12 years in prison.
The court heard that Ms McIlwaine stabbed 38-year-old Mr Crossley as he lay sleeping in her home on the night of March 1, 2022.
He was taken to hospital, but died soon after, and a post mortem later confirmed the cause of death as stab wounds to the chest and abdomen.
James Crossley was stabbed to death while he slept (Pic: PSNI)“This has been an extremely difficult case,” PSNI Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin said following the court hearing.
“The two had been in a mutually abusive relationship,” she explained.
“At the time of Mr Crossley’s death, a restraining order was in place that prohibited him from being in contact with Ms McIlwaine.
“Despite this safeguard, and a period of separation during which the defendant resided in a woman’s refuge, Julianne contacted Jim to re-establish their relationship, which he agreed to.
“Ms McIlwaine’s defence was that she had caused the death of Jim Crossley by manslaughter based on a temporary loss of control as a victim of domestic abuse.
“The Jury, however, didn’t accept that she had experienced a loss of control, and convicted her of murder.”
Det Insp Griffin added: “Working in partnership with the Public Prosecution Service, the defendant has today been held accountable.
“It remains, however, a tragic case which leaves so many family members, including children, totally heartbroken.
“There are no winners here. Only sorrow prevails.”
Det Insp Griffin said the case was “a sad reminder that no one should ever take the law into their own hands”.
“I want to appeal to anyone, irrespective of gender or background, who is experiencing, or has experienced, domestic abuse to please speak to us,” she added.
“We know that domestic abuse can take many forms, from coercive control to physical abuse.
“Whatever your circumstances, I promise that we will listen to you, and we will support you. Please contact us on 101.”