…By Alan Peterson for TDPel Media.
A man, Declan O’Donnell, has been sentenced to life in prison after brutally beating his aunt’s partner, Paul Cox, to death in a “sadistic” attack that was live-streamed on social media.
The 24-year-old repeatedly kicked, punched, and stamped on Cox during a two-hour rampage at a flat.
Disturbing footage of the attack was uploaded to Facebook and Instagram, prompting viewers to plead for it to stop.
Horrific Injuries and Tragic Outcome
Despite pleas from Cox’s aunt and the harrowing nature of the assault, O’Donnell continued his relentless and humiliating attack.
Emergency services were called, and Cox was rushed to Nottingham’s Queen’s Medical Centre, where he tragically passed away nine days later.
The extent of his injuries was severe, including multiple fractures, internal bleeding, a fractured skull, a broken spine, a broken jaw, and wounds to his head.
Guilty Verdict and Sentencing
O’Donnell, hailing from Nottingham, admitted to manslaughter but pleaded not guilty to murder, claiming diminished responsibility due to a mental disorder.
However, following a 13-day trial at Nottingham Crown Court, he was found guilty of murder.
Judge James Sampson acknowledged the presence of a mental disorder but emphasized that it did not excuse the brutality and grotesqueness of the attack.
O’Donnell was sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 23 years.
Family’s Response and Call for Justice
In a joint statement, Cox’s family expressed gratitude to the police and legal team for helping them achieve justice.
While they acknowledged that nothing could bring back their loved one, they believed that the verdict was the right outcome.
They also expressed deep sadness for the lives destroyed by the incident and called for a focus on grieving for Paul.
Their thoughts were with all those impacted by O’Donnell’s actions.
Police Condemn the Horrifying Attack
Detective Inspector Melanie Crutchley of Nottinghamshire Police described the attack as horrifying, senseless, and almost defying belief in its brutality.
O’Donnell not only beat Cox unconscious but also live-streamed the attack on his mobile phone, showing no mercy throughout.
Crutchley commended the jury members for their professionalism in watching the disturbing footage during the trial.
Although the sentence cannot bring Paul Cox back, it provides some comfort to his family, knowing that O’Donnell will spend a significant part of his life behind bars.