Julianne McIlwaine has been sentenced at Belfast Crown Court for a minimum of 12 years in prison for the murder of James Joseph Crossley in west Belfast in 2022.

The 34-year-old was found guilty of the murder of her 38-year-old partner last October and subsequently received a life sentence.

Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin detailed the circumstances of Mr Crossley's death. "Jim Crossley was 38 years old when his life was taken. He was stabbed by Julianne McIlwaine, in her home and as he lay sleeping, on the night of 1 March 2022," she said.

"Mr Crossley was taken to hospital, but sadly died soon after. A post mortem confirmed he died as a result of stab wounds to the chest and abdomen," Detective Inspector Griffin added.

The detective described the complex nature of the case. "This has been an extremely difficult case. The two had been in a mutually abusive relationship. At the time of Mr Crossley's death, a restraining order was in place that prohibited him from being in contact with Ms McIlwaine. Despite this safeguard, and a period of separation during which the defendant resided in a woman's refuge, Julianne contacted Jim to re-establish their relationship, which he agreed to." Regarding the defence, Detective Inspector Griffin stated: "Ms McIlwaine's defence was that she had caused the death of Jim Crossley by manslaughter based on a temporary loss of control as a victim of domestic abuse. The Jury, however, didn't accept that she had experienced a loss of control, and convicted her of murder."

She concluded: "Working in partnership with the Public Prosecution Service, the defendant has today been held accountable. It remains, however, a tragic case which leaves so many family members, including children, totally heartbroken. There are no winners here. Only sorrow prevails."

The Detective Inspector also issued an appeal regarding domestic abuse. "It's a sad reminder that no one should ever take the law into their own hands, and I want to appeal to anyone, irrespective of gender or background, who is experiencing, or has experienced, domestic abuse to please speak to us," she urged.

"We know that domestic abuse can take many forms, from coercive control to physical abuse. Whatever your circumstances, I promise that we will listen to you, and we will support you. Please contact us on 101."

Support for individuals, including details of organisations who can help, is available at www.psni.police.uk/crime/domestic-abuse