Steven Francis, a 59-year-old convicted criminal with a history of violence against women, has been sentenced to a minimum of 28 years in prison for the brutal murder of Louisa Hall.
Steven Francis , a 59-year-old convicted criminal with a history of violence against women, has been sentenced to a minimum of 28 years in prison for the brutal murder of Louisa Hall . Francis was found guilty by a jury at Leeds Crown Court of murdering the 43-year-old sex worker in a sustained attack at his flat in Little London, Leeds , in October 2023. Louisa Hall suffered over 117 injuries during the horrific assault.
The court heard that Francis had a history of violence against women, with previous convictions for rape in 1990, which resulted in a six-year prison sentence, and a further rape conviction in 2016. During the trial, the prosecution presented evidence highlighting the similarities between the 2016 rape and Louisa Hall's murder, both occurring at Francis's flat. Forensic evidence, including Francis's DNA found on Louisa's neck, and CCTV footage that contradicted Francis's alibi, played a crucial role in securing his conviction. The court also heard from Louisa Hall's heartbroken family, who described her as a 'wonderful mum' who was kind, beautiful, and trusting. They expressed their anguish at the brutal way she had been taken from them and the lasting impact of her death on their lives. Detective Chief Inspector James Entwistle, who led the investigation, praised the courage of Louisa Hall's family and the 2016 rape victim for coming forward and supporting the prosecution. He emphasized the dangerous nature of Francis and his deliberate targeting of vulnerable women. The 59-year-old killer, who is a cocaine user with heart problems, will likely spend the rest of his days behind bars, offering some small measure of justice to Louisa Hall and her family
Murder Rape Serial Killer Steven Francis Louisa Hall Leeds Crime Investigation Justice
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