'Squat' murderer jailed for life

An alcoholic woman has been convicted of the murder of a man with whom she shared a squat in Belfast.

Sarah Jane Delaney, 32, was found guilty of murder and arson following the death of her 34-year-old drinking partner at a house in Camden Street in 2002.

During the trial the court heard that Delaney had beaten Billy Shaw, 34, unconscious with a spanner and had then set fire to the premises to conceal evidence.

Delaney, who had initially denied the attack, was extradited from the Republic of Ireland after she went on the run following her release on bail.

She later admitted having an argument with Mr Shaw and that she had beaten him with the spanner which she claimed that he had thrown at her.

A minimum tariff for Delaney is to be announced by the court.

(SP)