Kent Man Sentenced to Life Imprisonment for Girlfriend’s Murder

A Kent resident has received a life imprisonment sentence for the murder of his girlfriend, whom he fatally assaulted during a dispute. Huseyin Kalyoncu, 34, of Edenbridge, was apprehended on May 5 following an incident where he rendered Sonia Parker unconscious at their shared residence in Styles Close. Testimony presented during the trial revealed that Ms. Parker, 51, succumbed to a combination of severe injuries to her head and torso, resulting from repeated blows. On Wednesday, Maidstone Crown Court handed Kalyoncu a life sentence. He is required to serve a minimum term of 19 years before becoming eligible for parole consideration. Following the assault, paramedics made efforts to resuscitate Ms. Parker; however, she was pronounced dead a short time later. Kalyoncu was arrested and subsequently faced a murder charge, which he initially denied. While he later confessed to manslaughter, he was ultimately convicted of murder during the trial. According to police, Ms. Parker sustained 69 marks on her body, along with internal bruising, damage to her liver and spleen, five fractured vertebrae, and 19 fractures to her ribs and chest. A pathologist concluded that some of these injuries had occurred weeks prior to her death. Following the sentencing on Wednesday, Det Supt Kathleen Way stated: “Kalyoncu killed the woman he allegedly loved.” “In denying his part in the murder of Ms Parker, Kalyoncu has subsequently forced the victim’s family and friends to relive their loss over and over again during the court trial.” “His inability to control his temper and abhorrent behaviour means he will now serve a minimum of 19 years’ imprisonment before he will even be considered for parole.” “I hope his lengthy custodial sentence provides Sonia’s family and friends with some comfort.” For updates, follow BBC Kent on Facebook, X, and Instagram. Story ideas can be submitted to southeasttoday@bbc.co.uk or via WhatsApp at 08081 002250. Copyright 2024 BBC. All rights reserved. The BBC disclaims responsibility for the content found on external websites. Information regarding their approach to external linking is available.