December 2nd 2024.
Leigh Pateman and Ellen Marshall were an ordinary couple living in Skegness, Lincolnshire until tragedy struck in April 2021. Leigh, 45, committed a heinous act of pouring petrol on his girlfriend and setting her on fire while she was sitting in an armchair at their home. This cruel and senseless act resulted in Ellen suffering from severe burns and ultimately losing her life in March 2023. Leigh was initially sentenced to 17 years and 10 months in prison for grievous bodily harm, but the charge was upgraded to murder after Ellen's death.
In a court appearance last month, Leigh pleaded guilty and today, he was sentenced to life behind bars with a minimum term of 23 years and 145 days before he is eligible for parole. During his sentencing, Leigh showed little emotion and only spoke when stating his name. Judge Simon Hirst condemned Leigh's actions, stating that he had planned the attack in advance and caused Ellen unimaginable pain and suffering.
According to the court, Leigh's abuse towards Ellen was not a one-time occurrence. It was part of a pattern of violence and control that he had inflicted on her for weeks before the fatal incident. On the night of the attack, a neighbor called the authorities after seeing black smoke coming from the couple's home. Firefighters arrived to find Ellen in extreme pain, with her body severely burned and her fingers missing. She was rushed to the hospital but sadly succumbed to her injuries a few years later.
The statistics surrounding femicide and domestic violence are alarming and heartbreaking. On average, one woman a week is killed by a partner or ex-partner in the UK. In the case of Ellen's death, the suspect was male in 241 out of 249 domestic homicide cases from March 2020 to March 2022. Women's Aid also reports that women are more likely to be killed by their partner than not wearing a seatbelt. These statistics highlight the urgent need for action and support for victims of domestic violence.
During the trial, the court heard how Ellen's injuries were so severe that it was difficult to recognize her facial features. She lost several fingers and suffered burns all over her body. Meanwhile, Leigh was found by police at his mother's house, seemingly trying to hide from the authorities. The devastating impact of his actions was evident, not only on Ellen but also on her loved ones.
As we continue to mourn the loss of Ellen, it is crucial to raise awareness and support organizations that work towards preventing domestic violence and femicide. Only through education and action can we hope to put an end to these senseless and tragic deaths. Our hearts go out to Ellen's family and friends during this difficult time.
[This article has been trending online recently and has been generated with AI. Your feed is customized.]
[Generative AI is experimental.]
