An abusive bully who murdered his partner after she returned from visiting the grave of her nine-week-old baby that had died has been jailed for life.
James Campbell was convicted of killing 33-year-old Colette Myers, following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court.
During the trial, the jury heard details of how Colette had been visiting the grave of her nine-week-old baby who passed away in 2007, on April 19, before she returned home.
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Campbell, who denied murder, claimed he heard Colette go to bed, but that she was dead when he woke up the following morning.
An investigation was launched by officers from the Force’s Major Investigation Team (MIT) and Campbell was arrested and taken into custody for questioning.
It was later confirmed Colette died of a head injury inflicted by her partner of ten years.
Campbell, 33, of Denwick Avenue in Lemington was convicted of Colette’s murder at Newcastle Crown Court on Monday (October 16), following a nine-day trial.
On Friday (October 20), he was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 18 years imprisonment.
Earlier this week, Colette’s family paid tribute to her with a statement which read: “Colette was a much-loved sister, auntie, mother and friend. She was the life and soul of the party who would help anyone out, even if it meant she would go without.
“Colette had so much to live for, yet she was only 33-years-old when she was brutally murdered by her live-in partner of 10 years.
“Colette was the victim of domestic abuse, and her death could have been prevented if she had sought help. If you are a victim of domestic abuse, you may be feeling isolated, ashamed and alone.
"Please know you are not alone, and you are not to blame. Above all, you do not have to suffer in silence – please seek help.”
Speaking after the sentencing, the Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins of Northumbria Police, said: “I hope knowing Campbell is spending a long time behind bars helps Colette’s family to take their first steps towards closure.
“I would like to praise the courage and dignity they’ve shown during these proceedings. I know it was not easy for them to hear details of Campbell’s abusive and violent behaviour towards Colette, which tragically ended with her losing her life.
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“I would also like to thank the jury for their attention and diligence, especially those who returned today for sentencing. Their commitment has been commendable and has been of great support to Colette’s family.
“Campbell is a dangerous bully who poses a significant risk to women and it is only right he spends a lengthy time behind bars where he cannot harm anyone else.
“No one deserves to be subjected to any kind of violence or abuse and as a Force we will do all we can to bring perpetrators to justice. I would encourage anyone out there who is affected by Colette’s story and wants to report abuse, whether they are the victim, or believe someone else to be a victim, to get in touch straight away. We will take action.”
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