Killer who left partner with 100 injuries jailed

A man who attacked his girlfriend and left her to die at their home with more than 100 injuries has been jailed for life for her murder.

Tony Devenport, 57, violently attacked Stephanie Blundell on Canal Street in Chester and her body was found by her father on 20 July last year.

The couple had met about a year before, while both were receiving support for alcohol addiction.

Devenport, who was found guilty after a trial at Chester Crown Court, was given a minimum sentence of 22 years.

The trial heard Philip Blundel contacted police at about 12:20 BST after finding his daughter lying on a blood-soaked mattress, with severe bruising and injuries across her face, neck and body.

The CPS said Devenport was wandering around the house in an intoxicated state, repeatedly saying, "I think she's dead".

Devenport was arrested, but denied being responsible. He claimed she had died "peacefully" due to her struggles with alcohol.

But a post-mortem examination found 102 injuries, including to her brain, fractures associated with strangulation or mechanical asphyxiation and severe facial bruising.

Detectives learned Stephanie had not left the house for about 10 days before her death, during which time Devenport had been feeding her largely on alcohol and ice lollies.

Det Insp Andrea Price said: "Stephanie was loved and cherished amongst family and friends, and although today marks the day her killer is brought to justice, I want Stephanie to be the one who we remember.

"Stephanie's family have shown remarkable strength throughout this investigation.

"No family should ever have to endure the devastation caused by such violence."

Stephanie's family said the trial had been "one of the most painful experiences of our lives", but thanked Cheshire Police for being with them "every step of the way".

They added: "The grief we carry is profound and will be with us forever. We now begin the long and painful process of learning how to live without her, and of finding a way to move forward while holding her memory close.

"Steph was, without question, one of the most radiant souls you could ever hope to meet.

"She was kind-hearted, quick-witted and effortlessly stylish.

"Her warmth and compassion have been evident throughout this trial and that brings us some comfort that her true loving nature has been seen by so many."

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