Family devastated after Courtney Mitchell’s murder. They urge action against knife crime and domestic violence following sentencing.
Courtney’s mom, Samantha, spoke after the sentencing. She said no justice will ever truly suffice. They vowed to honor Courtney’s memory. She won’t just be a murder statistic, they said. They want to raise awareness about domestic violence.
Samantha wants public services to listen to pleas. She said women are dying too often. It’s time to stand against violent men. Violent relationships and knife crime must stop. She stressed it’s a serious national issue. Help is available; you aren’t alone.
The family now faces their own life sentence. Courtney had so much life to live. Senior officer Nicola Wallace commented on the case. The IOPC is investigating prior contact. They will learn any lessons they can. She cannot say more until it’s done.
Burnett was jealous, the court heard. He planned the attack on Burrell Road. He stabbed her repeatedly last August 6th. She was with friends at the time. Burnett even bought two knives beforehand.
He pinned her against a fence, stabbing her. He hit her back, arms, torso, legs, and head. Two wounds pierced her lung and aorta. She died quickly from blood loss. The judge gave him life with 24 years minimum.