…By Babatunde Lucas for TDPel Media.
A man who killed his wife and 12-year-old daughter was branded a “monster” by the victim’s mother as he received a life sentence with a minimum term of 40 years.
The bodies of Jillu Nash, 43, and her daughter Louise were discovered at their residence in Great Waldingfield, Sudbury, Suffolk.
Peter Nash, 47, was found covered in blood, holding a knife.
Motive Revealed: Jealousy Over Wife’s New Relationship
The court learned that Nash strangled his wife after she entered into a romantic relationship with a coworker.
Following the murder, he attempted to gas himself and his non-verbal autistic daughter, and when unsuccessful, stabbed both himself and his daughter.
Sentencing and Lack of Remorse
Mr Justice Edward Murray handed down a life sentence with a minimum term of 40 years at Ipswich Crown Court.
The judge expressed doubt that Nash, given his current age, would ever be released from prison.
He denounced Nash’s “deeply flawed set of beliefs about the law” derived from internet searches and highlighted the defendant’s lack of remorse for the murders.
Emotional Victim Impact Statement and Harrowing Loss
Jillu Nash’s mother, Dhruti Shah, delivered a tearful victim impact statement in court, describing her daughter as a loving mother with a positive attitude towards life.
She mourned the loss of her daughter and granddaughter, calling Nash a “living human monster” who treated their lives as mere playthings.
Mrs. Shah emotionally shared the devastating impact of the tragedy, emphasizing the innocence of her petite daughter and non-verbal grandchild.
Defendant’s Dismissive Response and Judge’s Remarks
Representing himself in court, Nash dismissed the victim impact statements as “BS” and claimed to know the victims better.
He argued that the murders were not premeditated but predetermined.
In response, the judge commended Mrs. Nash as a devoted mother and highlighted Louise’s joyful personality and the affection she inspired.
Lack of Reaction and Grieving Family
Nash displayed no visible reaction upon hearing his sentence and used a walking frame as he was escorted to the cells.
Meanwhile, family members of Mrs. Nash wept in the public gallery, overwhelmed by grief and the tragic loss they endured.