Court proceedings conclude in Liverpool over a tragic murder case
The courtroom in Liverpool has delivered a pivotal moment in a case that shook the community: Michael Ormandy has been found guilty of murdering his girlfriend, Rebekah Campbell, and is set to be sentenced today. The 34-year-old, a resident of Linacre Lane in Litherland, faced jurors after a harrowing trial that heard how Campbell, 32, died following a stabbing at the Knowsley Heights block of flats in Huyton in April this year.
Campbell’s death ended a relationship marred by fear and violence, according to evidence presented at trial. Prosecutors contended that Ormandy acted with deadly intent, while the defence argued he acted in self-defence. The jury—nine men and three women—took two hours and 16 minutes to arrive at a unanimous verdict, underscoring the severity and clarity of the evidence in the crown’s case.
Graphic evidence and a heartrending final moments
During testimony, jurors heard that Campbell suffered 18 stab wounds and nine slash injuries. A friend who was on the phone with Campbell at the moment of the attack reported her shouted pleas: “get out, go away Mick,” before the line fell silent. Emergency services later faced a scene of collapse outside the building, with Campbell asking, “am I gonna die?” before she was pronounced dead in hospital. The stark testimony left jurors in no doubt about the lethality of the accused’s actions that day.
The defendant’s actions following the incident raise serious questions
In the hours after the incident, Ormandy called police and claimed to have a “suicide vest,” threatening to “blow everyone up.” He was later found on the towpath of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal wearing body armour. His remarks at the scene—suggesting Campbell must have stabbed herself—added to the shock and confusion surrounding the events. These actions, along with the evidence of premeditation and the possession of weapons, weighed heavily in the trial and sentencing considerations.
Judge’s remarks and the seriousness of the offence
The presiding judge, the Honorary Recorder of Liverpool, Judge Andrew Menary KC, made clear that the case involved serious aggravating features. He noted that Ormandy had admitted habitually carrying knives, a factor the court would treat as highly aggravating if an item was used in the fatal act. While he acknowledged the possibility that a knife could have been involved, his provisional view was that Campbell did not wield a knife and that the weapon — if one existed — was introduced by the defendant. The judge’s observations highlight the court’s focus on the defendant’s intent, preparation, and the level of violence used in the killing.
What sentencing could mean for Ormandy
While the reporting on sentencing updates is ongoing, the verdict already marks a turning point in a case that had jurors weighing the evidence of self-defence against the brutal realities of the attack. Sentencing in murder cases in the region often reflects the premeditation, the use of weapons, and the impact on victims’ families. For Campbell’s loved ones, the day’s proceedings bring a measure of closure, even as the court determines a sentence that will keep Ormandy away from society for a long period.
Reactions from family and community
As has been the pattern in such cases, supporters of Campbell’s family cheered when the verdict was announced, while Ormandy’s reaction in the dock drew a mixture of responses including clapping and protests. The courtroom atmosphere underscored the emotional weight of the moment for both sides: the heartbreak of a family seeking justice and the tension surrounding the defendant’s handling of the verdict.
What happens next
After today’s sentencing, the case will move into the next phase of the legal process, with the judge delivering a prison term that reflects the gravity of the crime. The precise sentence will be announced in court, aligning with sentencing guidelines that consider the offence’s severity, the defendant’s background, and the impact on the victim’s family. The court will also note any potential appeal options or post-sentence considerations that could shape Ormandy’s time in custody.
Bottom line
The murder of Rebekah Campbell is a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise within intimate relationships. As the sentencing phase unfolds, the Liverpool legal system continues to seek justice for the victim and closure for her loved ones, while ensuring that the offender receives due process under the law.
