RYAN EVANS FROM CRAWLEY SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR MURDERING HOLLY SANCHEZ IN WEST SUSSEX

A tragic case of domestic violence culminated in the death of Holly Sanchez, a young woman from Crawley, West Sussex, at the hands of her partner, Ryan Evans. Evans, aged 31 and residing on Oates Walk in Crawley, was convicted of her murder in July at Hove Crown Court. On Friday, he was sentenced to a minimum term of 21 years in prison, with the court ruling that he will remain on licence for the rest of his life.

Holly Sanchez’s family endured a harrowing ordeal as they learned about the brutal injuries inflicted upon her during her relationship with Evans. The court heard that Evans had taken advantage of Ms Sanchez financially and had repeatedly threatened her with violence. His coercive and abusive conduct escalated over time, leading to multiple injuries that ultimately resulted in her death. Family members described Evans as a “cruel and evil monster,” emphasizing the severity of his actions and the danger he posed.

The tragic case has sparked calls from Holly’s relatives for increased awareness of domestic violence and its potentially fatal consequences. They expressed hope that this case would encourage more victims to come forward and seek help before tragedy strikes.

In addition to the murder charge, Evans was found guilty of unlawful wounding, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and controlling and coercive behaviour. During the trial, prosecutor Ryan Richter highlighted the pattern of violence, stating: “In the short time they were together, [he] regularly subjected her to domestic violence, beating her and hurting her.”

During the sentencing hearing, Kelly Sanchez, Holly’s mother, shared her anguish, saying: “The thought of what Holly went through at the hands of Ryan haunts me every day. I cannot understand how someone could hurt my baby girl so badly.”

Initially, Evans faced a sentence of 23 years, but this was reduced due to the time he had already spent in remand. The court’s decision underscores the gravity of his crimes and the devastating impact on Holly Sanchez’s family and the community of Crawley.