Man guilty of Liverpool mum's murder
29 year old Michael Williams has been found guilty of murdering Liverpool mum Maxine Showers in Fairfield last September.
A man's been jailed for life with a minimum of 22 years, for the murder of Liverpool mum Maxine Showers.
The 42 year old's body was discovered in an alley in Fairfield last September. A post-mortem examination found that she died as a result of blunt force trauma to the head.
Michael Williams had admitted her manslaughter but denied murder - however a jury at Liverpool Crown Court have found him guilty this afternoon.
Merseyside Police has welcomed the sentencing. Detective Chief Inspector Mark Tivendale said: "We welcome the verdict of the court and hope that it will give some closure to Maxine's family, but ultimately nothing can bring her back. "Maxine was just 42 years old, a mother, and will tragically now not see her children grow up. This has been a devastating ordeal for her family and friends, and our thoughts are with them as they continue to come to terms with Maxine's death and this verdict. "Maxine was subjected to a brutal attack by Williams, who then despicably tried to justify his violent actions by accusing her of theft and provocation. "Following the murder, we liaised closely with partners in Liverpool Community Health NHS Trust to ensure that sex workers were provided with the specialist support and safety advice they needed. However, this work continues daily as we recognise that sex workers continue to face threats and violence, so it is important to highlight those services on offer." Martin Fenerty, Operational Manager of the Armistead Centre which provides support and outreach services to Street Sex Workers in Liverpool, said: “Our service offers support and advice to Sex Workers for any issues that affect them, including sexual health and personal safety. "Our links with Merseyside Police means that our clients have access to justice and effective support when they most need it. We can offer support to anyone involved in sex work via our helpline on 0151 247 6560 or in person at 56-58 Hanover Street.” Shelly Stoops, Service Manager for SAFE Place Merseyside Sexual Assault Referral Centre, said: “Our NHS service provides confidential treatment and support to anyone affected by sexual assault or violence – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. "We would encourage anyone who may themselves have been a victim of sexual violence to come forward and talk to one of our specialist team. You can access SAFE Place on: 0151 295 3550 or visit: www.safeplacemerseyside.org.uk."