A man who stabbed a woman to death within an Edinburgh stairwell has today been jailed.
Douglas Lawrence, (29), attacked Carolyn Ann Ellis during a disturbance at her home address in West Tollcross on 17 January 2012.
The 32-year-old died as a result of her injuries and a major police investigation was launched.
Lawrence previously pled guilty to culpable homicide with diminished responsibility and has been held in a state hospital since the incident. At the High Court in Edinburgh he was told that there is no minimum restriction to the length of time he will spend in the facility and is subject to lifetime restriction conditions.
Detective Inspector Carol Craig said: -“Douglas Lawrence subjected Carolyn Ann Ellis to an horrific and sustained attack, which was witnessed by other residents in the stairwell and police officers who responded to the address. The severity of the injuries Carolyn Ann suffered ultimately resulted in her death and left those who tried to save her deeply traumatised.
“A robust case was built against Lawrence, which led to his admission of guilt and I would like to thank all of the officers involved for their professionalism and dedication during what was a very distressing investigation.
“I also wish to pay tribute to Carolyn Ann’s family for all of their support and their courage and dignity during this ordeal. It is my hope that they have gained some closure and can now move on with their lives.”
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