Grandfather defends the killer, his son, claiming it was an accident. The mother still supports him despite the conviction.
Experts said it couldn’t be an accident. The wound was too deep, they explained, indicating he held the knife firmly, as was needed to pierce her clothes and chest. Despite this, his family supports him. The judge sentenced him to at least 15 years.
Simon’s dad, Barrie, said it wasn’t deliberate, stating that Scarlett meant everything to Simon. He believes it was an accident and that he would know if it was on purpose. Barrie also said Scarlett’s mom is devastated, having lost her daughter and now her partner.
However, she still supports Simon, even though prosecutors didn’t give a motive at the trial. His lawyer said everyone is suffering. Scarlett’s parents can’t believe she is gone.
The mom believes Simon didn’t mean harm, a belief his parents share too. The judge noted Simon’s changing stories, mentioning throwing knives, tongs, and a spatula. Then he said Scarlett lunged at the knife by herself.
The judge found his story unconvincing, stating that the injury came from Simon’s hand. The judge added that Scarlett’s life ended quickly in a moment of anger, at their home in Darlington. Only Simon knows the truth, the judge said. He accepted responsibility but hid the truth.