Following a guilty plea at Leeds Crown Court, Michael Doherty, 38, has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of Courtney Angus just hours before her 21st birthday. The judge imposed a minimum term of 33 years for the crime.

Courtney’s body was discovered at Doherty’s residence in Norfolk Street after police arrested him in connection with an armed robbery at an Asda in Dewsbury. She was found to have been assaulted and strangled, with a post-mortem revealing 76 injuries and signs of “sexual activity” by the defendant.

During the sentencing, it was revealed that Doherty had amputated a part of Courtney’s body and displayed it on his mantlepiece. Prosecutors disclosed that he had expressed romantic interest in Courtney on the day of the murder, threatening self-harm when she did not reciprocate.

According to witnesses, shortly before midnight on the night of the murder, Doherty was seen near a local pub behaving agitatedly, admitting to having done something terrible. The court also learned of Doherty’s previous criminal history, including a rape conviction in 2014 and other offenses like arson, assaults, robberies, and harassment.

Judge Guy Kearl set a minimum term of 33 years for Doherty, with the requirement to serve the term in custody before facing a Parole Board review for potential release. The judge described Courtney as a vibrant young woman and condemned Doherty’s actions, stating that he had forever altered the lives of those who knew her.

The judge emphasized that Doherty’s attack was sexually motivated, highlighting his actions as a result of rejection. Courtney had been residing at Doherty’s address for several days before the fatal incident, during which Doherty had expressed his feelings for her. The prosecution argued that the killing involved sexual and/or sadistic behavior.

After confirming Courtney’s death, her family expressed their devastation, describing her as a beloved daughter and sister with a beautiful soul. They mourned the loss of a music-loving, fun-seeking individual who brought joy to their lives.

In addition to the murder charge, Doherty pleaded guilty to three counts of threatening with a bladed article and denied having a bladed article or affray.