A man convicted of murder has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 42 years for fatally stabbing his pregnant partner after she refused to terminate their unborn child.
Shaine March, who was on parole at the time, attacked 32-year-old Alana Odysseos by stabbing her 19 times in her home in Walthamstow, east London. March confessed to the police, admitting, “I did it. I killed her, hahahaha.”
Despite being urged to attend his sentencing at the Old Bailey, March refused, calling it just a formality. The court was urged by the prosecutor to compel his presence to make him realize the impact of his actions on the victim’s family.
Surveillance footage released by the police captured March leaving the scene and making disturbing comments in a police vehicle after his arrest. He was later seen via videolink from Belmarsh prison, where the judge highlighted the brutal nature of the attack, emphasizing the extensive injuries inflicted on Alana.
March was described as targeting Alana’s reproductive organs during the assault, repeatedly stabbing her in various areas of her body. The judge mentioned that several of the wounds could have been fatal individually.
Before disposing of his phone, March recorded a message admitting his crime to his mother. Despite calls for a whole life order, the judge noted that due to March’s age, he might never be released, given his violent past and the severity of the recent offense.
Alana, who was a mother of two, was in a tumultuous relationship with March, described as controlling and violent by her loved ones. Despite concerns from family and friends, Alana chose to stay with March, leading to the tragic events on the night of the attack.
The court heard emotional statements from Alana’s family, expressing their devastation and anger towards March for the senseless loss. They painted a picture of Alana as a loving and caring individual who fell victim to March’s abusive behavior.
Neighbors overheard arguments and pleas from Alana on the night of the incident, reflecting the toxic dynamics of her relationship with March. The prosecution highlighted March’s history of abuse and lack of remorse, emphasizing the need for justice in such cases of violence against women.
The tragic outcome of Alana’s murder serves as a stark reminder of the impact of domestic violence and the need for a safer environment for women. The court proceedings shed light on the complexities of abusive relationships and the devastating consequences they can lead to, leaving families shattered and lives destroyed.
