Hairdresser's killer must serve three years minimum
- Published
A 43-year-old man found guilty of murdering his partner has been given an indeterminate jail sentence but must serve three years before review.
Steven Jewell was sentenced at Northampton Crown Court on Monday.
He was convicted last week of killing hairdresser Nicole deSousa, 31, in February last year at the home they shared in Oakley Street, The Mounts.
His defence lawyer said Jewell's conduct had been the result of prolonged heavy drinking.
The prosecution rejected his plea of manslaughter and said he was in full control of his faculties when he strangled Ms deSouza.
Judge Charles Wide QC said he would have to serve a minimum of three years before parole would be considered.
In a statement Ms deSousa's family said: "Nicola was a caring, intelligent, fun-loving girl who was an extremely family-oriented person.
"She was a girl who had dreams and ambitions, a creative and artistic individual who proved to be a budding photographer and artist and was always trying to better herself."
- Published17 February 2010