Man who murdered love rival in Darlington sentenced to life.

A man who killed his former lover’s new partner has been sentenced to life in prison.

David Saunders, of Esk Road, Darlington, will serve a minimum of 22 years for the murder of Michael Lawson.

The 33-year-old stabbed Mr Lawson with a knife during an altercation on Geneva Road, in Darlington, in July this year.

Saunders was due to stand trial this week, but changed his plea to guilty on Monday (December 4).

He was sentenced at Teesside Crown Court yesterday (Thursday, December 7).

Detective Chief Superintendent Adrian Green, who led the investigation, said: “I am pleased that Saunders admitted his guilt, although he had an opportunity to do so before this week.

“I hope today’s sentence will go a small way to offer some conclusion to the horrible suffering of the family, who have supported the police investigation throughout.

“Anyone who arms themselves with a knife to attack another deserves the sentence that he has received.