Police respond to Simon Vickers’ sentencing for the murder of his daughter, Scarlett, in their Geneva Road home.
The judge sentenced Simon Vickers to at least 15 years, stating that Scarlett deserved the truth about that night. Mr. Justice Cotter remarked that Simon knows the full story, even though the jury heard three different versions from the dad.
Dr. Jennifer Bolton testified that the knife was held firmly, penetrating 11cm into the girl’s chest. Consequently, the jury found Vickers guilty of murder after the trial at Teesside Crown Court.
Christopher Atkinson discussed the sad situation, expressing his lack of understanding as to why Vickers killed his daughter. He added that they may never fully know what happened, and pointed out that Vickers’ story did not match forensic evidence. The medical expert also confirmed the firm grip, and Atkinson sympathized with Scarlett’s family.
Mr. Justice Cotter sentenced Vickers to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 15 years, calling it a “flash of anger.” Detective Superintendent Craig Rudd, who led the investigation, stated that there is no excuse for Vickers’s act.
Rudd stated Scarlett would be alive without the knife, adding that this case deeply affected everyone involved. He shared that his thoughts are with those who loved Scarlett. Although the family didn’t give a victim impact statement, Scarlett’s mother still supports her partner and does not believe he meant to hurt Scarlett.