Man convicted of murdering Sunderland woman Melissa Eastick
A Sunderland man's admitted murdering a woman - after she sustained more than a hundred injuries at his hands.
A Sunderland man's admitted murdering a woman - after she sustained more than a hundred injuries at his hands.
Stephen Todd dialled 999 at around 7am on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, to report he had found Melissa was unresponsive inside his address on Stockton Terrace in the Grangetown area of Sunderland.
Emergency services attended where sadly the 36-year-old was pronounced deceased at the scene after sustaining multiple injuries consistent with having been assaulted.
An investigation into Melissa’s death was immediately launched by Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team – with Todd arrested on suspicion of murder that same day.
Enquiries later revealed Melissa had suffered more than 100 injuries in the days leading up to her death including bruises, cigarette burns and fractures.
CCTV and house-to-house enquiries led detectives to uncover holes in Todd’s initial account and calls for help – including footage of him disposing of evidence near to the address.
Clips also showed Todd visiting a nearby shop to buy two bottles of alcohol – at a time when medical experts have deemed Melissa would have likely been unconscious inside the property.
Todd, now 41, had also claimed to paramedics upon arrival that, “she seemed alright yesterday,” – despite the pair’s last sighting together being more than two weeks earlier.
Todd was later charged with Melissa’s murder earlier this year, and appeared before South Tyneside Magistrates Court on March 20, where he denied the offence.
This week he went on trial at Newcastle Crown Court – however, today (Wednesday) he pleaded guilty to murder.
Todd, of Buttermere Street, Sunderland, was remanded in custody and is due to be sentenced before the same court at a later date.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Louise Jenkins, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, I would like to extend my deepest sympathies to Melissa’s family and loved ones – and we will continue to offer them any support they need.
“This is a truly horrific case where a young woman has sadly lost her life at the hands of her partner.
“Todd initially denied any involvement in Melissa’s death – despite her sustaining more than 100 injuries.
“He has shown no remorse throughout the investigation.
“However, thanks to the weight of evidence against him, Todd has finally admitted his guilt and Melissa’s loved ones can now attempt to navigate life without her.”
Det Chief Insp Jenkins added: “I’d like to thank all the officers and staff, and criminal justice partners who helped with this complex investigation and have ultimately helped us secure justice for Melissa.
“Domestic abuse, no matter the form it takes, is completely unacceptable and we are committed to putting perpetrators before the courts.”
For anyone who has concerns over a partner, the partner of a friend or family member, who may have a history of violence, Clare’s Law can be used to check the person’s background.
Officers can check their record to help people make an informed decision about their relationship and escape if necessary.
The service is free and 100% confidential – no one will ever know that the applicant has applied for information.
If you have immediate concerns about someone’s safety, always dial 999.