STEPHEN TODD CONVICTED OF BRUTAL MURDER IN SUNDERLAND

Stephen Todd, aged 41, has been found guilty of the violent murder of his former partner, Melissa Eastick, 36, in Sunderland during October 2023. The court heard that Mr. Todd confessed to the killing on the first day of his trial, leading to a sentence of life imprisonment with a minimum term of over 21 years and four months. The judge described the incident as a series of severe and repeated assaults spanning several days, which resulted in more than 100 injuries—including broken bones, extensive bruising, cigarette burns, and head trauma.

The judge emphasized the brutality of the attack, stating that Ms. Eastick was a 'frail and vulnerable' woman who was unable to defend herself, yet she was subjected to stamps, kicks, and blows that caused her significant pain. The court detailed her final days as filled with torment and described the attack as a 'callous disregard' for her life. It was noted that Todd showed no remorse after the incident and even went out socializing while she was injured.

The family paid tribute to Ms. Eastick, describing her as a beloved sister and mother and expressed feelings of guilt and anger over her repeated return to Todd despite her suffering. The judge highlighted the violent and brutal nature of the crimes, stating that she 'must have known what was coming.' He also pointed out Todd’s lack of remorse and characterized him as a 'drunken, violent lout' who used Ms. Eastick as a 'punch bag.' Although initially there was no intention to kill, Todd's actions ultimately resulted in her tragic death.