A man has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 22 years for murdering his partner, who was found dead with over 100 injuries. Tony Devenport, 57, received the sentence at Chester Crown Court after Stephanie Blundell, 41, was discovered dead in their shared home by her father. The court heard that Ms. Blundell had extensive bruising on her face and body.

Devenport was found guilty of murder following a trial. During sentencing, Mrs. Justice Steyn described Ms. Blundell as compassionate and kind-hearted. She highlighted the severe assaults inflicted by Devenport, leading to Ms. Blundell’s death on July 20, 2025. The judge mentioned the impact on Ms. Blundell’s father, who found his daughter deceased on a mattress in the house.

The court learned about the couple’s troubled relationship, with Devenport being controlling and coercive towards Ms. Blundell. Despite living together for almost two years, she did not have a key to the house and Devenport held onto her bank card. The judge noted instances of Devenport’s abusive behavior towards Ms. Blundell prior to her death.

In the days leading up to her death, Ms. Blundell was bed-bound and had no means of contacting anyone. Devenport bought large quantities of alcohol during this period and subjected Ms. Blundell to physical violence. The court heard that Devenport strangled Ms. Blundell and caused significant injuries to her brain before her death.

Ms. Blundell, who was suffering from health issues related to alcoholism, pleaded for help in her final days. However, Devenport provided her with alcohol and ice lollies instead of assistance. A post-mortem examination revealed that Ms. Blundell died from multiple injuries and the effects of chronic alcoholism.

In a statement released after the sentencing, Ms. Blundell’s family remembered her as a radiant and compassionate individual. Detective Inspector Andrea Price emphasized that Stephanie’s memory should be honored, highlighting the impact of her loss on loved ones.