Family of murdered Sharon Perrett pay tribute to her 'smile and personality'

THE family of murdered Christchurch woman Sharon Perrett have spoken of their “overwhelming" loss after her boyfriend was jailed for life for her murder.

In a statement issued by Dorset Police, Sharon’s relatives described her like a “painting with vibrant colours”.

They said: “She would brighten up anyone’s day with her smile and personality. She was loved by anyone who crossed her path. She could make people smile with a joke and laugh at her comical sense of humour.

“The loss we feel is overwhelming, living without her is indescribable. She is missed thoroughly by her family and friends.”

Sharon (37) was found dead, covered in blood, at her home in Park Gardens, Somerford, in the early hours of August 26th 2018 after a drunken night out. Winchester Crown Court heard she was a “woman quite literally beaten to death”.

Her killer, Daniel O’Malley-Keyes (37), of Chestnut Avenue, Bournemouth, had admitted “slapping and hitting” her during a violent row but claimed he broke her ribs while giving CPR to Sharon in a desperate attempt to save her life.

However, after a 13-day trial a jury found him guilty of murder and he was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 18 years.

DCI Rich Dixey, of Dorset Police’s major crime investigation team, rejected O’Malley-Keyes’ claims, saying: “The level of injuries indicate Sharon was the victim of a sustained violent attack at the hands of Daniel O’Malley-Keyes, which resulted in her tragic death.

“She was in a vulnerable state on that night and what she needed was a person who could protect her and look after her. The very person who should have done that actually brutally assaulted her, causing her death.

“I can only imagine the devastation this horrific crime has caused to Sharon’s family and I hope the verdict delivered by the jury today will bring some sense of closure. Our thoughts remain with them.”

Due to the relationship between the killer and the victim, the matter has been referred for a domestic homicide review by the local adult safeguarding board, a collection of adult care services bodies.

The case has also been referred to the Independent Office for Police Conduct as there was prior contact between police and the couple before Sharon’s death. Dorset Police said it is co-operating with the process.