Man convicted of murder after stabbing ex-partner in the neck at Bradford home
Michelle Egge Bailey was attacked on Airedale Avenue in March
A former soldier has been convicted of the murder of his ex-partner, who was stabbed in the neck and 'left for dead' in Cottingley earlier this year.
Bradford Crown Court heard how 54 year old Michelle Egge Bailey was attacked on Airedale Avenue on March 10, with emergency services finding her body the following day.
45 year old Stephen Lawton, of the same address, admitted to a friend that he'd attacked her during a phone call.
During trial it was claimed he suffered from PTSD because of his time in the forces, although the prosecution said he'd carried out the attack as an act of revenge after Michelle reported him for drink driving.
Lawton admitted manslaughter but was today found guilty of murder.
In a statement, Michelle’s mother Kathleen Da Born and Step father Jeremy Da Born said:
“The traumatic ending of Michelle’s life will remain with us, always.
“This violent attack and murder of our daughter committed by Stephen Lawton may have concluded with his conviction, but as Michelle's parents this brings us no closure.
“We would like to thank the Crown Prosecution Service, West Yorkshire Police family liaison team, and those that have helped and supported us and Michelle throughout.
“We would now ask for privacy and respect at this difficult time.”
Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle of West Yorkshire Police: “Michelle Egge-Bailey would still be alive today if Lawton had not stabbed her.
“Lawton then left her to die. It wasn’t until he phoned a friend and told them she was dead it was reported to us.
“This conviction highlights the tragic consequences of violence against women and girls and domestic abuse. I would urge anyone in this situation to report it to us, or other agencies so we can safeguard victims and bring offenders to justice.”
Lawton will be sentenced at a later date.