THE partner of a “kind and loving” mum has been jailed for life after he murdered her in his Manchester flat.
Depraved Leonard Lee Stewart, 55, killed Clare Marie Burns in the early hours of April 7 – and cops said the victim previously reached out for help.
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Stewart did not attempt to perform CPR or come to Clare’s aid when emergency services arrived, police said.
Clare’s heartbroken family said in an emotional tribute to the mum: “Clare was a loving mother, auntie, sister and daughter.
“She was funny, outgoing and a very independent person. She was also kind, generous and friendly to anyone she met.”
Greater Manchester Police revealed they had previously visited Stewart’s home in Harpurhey before Clare’s death, after they received reports he had spat at her.
Clare disclosed that she was being abused by her partner, but felt unable to make a full report to authorities.
Local cops said: “In relation to this previous incident, we referred ourselves to the Independent Office for Police Conduct and await the conclusion of their investigation.”
Detective Inspector Emma Hulston said: “Firstly, our hearts go out to Clare’s family, who had her ripped away from them.
“They have been incredibly strong in the wake of tragedy, and I am pleased that they have not had to endure a lengthy trial, compounding their pain further.”
She added: “Now this case has come to its conclusion, I hope the sentence passed today serves as closure to all those who loved her.
“The actions of Lee Stewart were nothing short of cruel and despicable, and he must now spend the rest of his life in prison with that.”
Stewart pleaded guilty to Clare’s murder at Manchester Crown Court on September 24.
Police added: “Clare’s story is an example of violence disproportionately experienced by women and girls in our society, which we are committed to tackling.
“We would encourage anyone suffering from domestic abuse of any form, whether that be physical violence or otherwise, to come forward to us.”
Cops said those concerned about partners can make sure of the Clare’s Law scheme.
The Domestic Violence Disclosure enables police to release information about anyone’s previous history of violence or abuse.
Domestic abuse – how to get help
DOMESTIC abuse can affect anyone – including men – and does not always involve physical violence.
Here are some signs that you could be in an abusive relationship:
- Emotional abuse – Including being belittled, blamed for the abuse – gaslighting – being isolated from family and friends, having no control over your finances, what you where and who you speak to
- Threats and intimidation – Some partners might threaten to kill or hurt you, destroy your belongings, stalk or harass you
- Physical abuse – This can range from slapping or hitting to being shoved over, choked or bitten.
- Sexual abuse – Being touched in a way you do not want to be touched, hurt during sex, pressured into sex or forced to have sex when you do not consent.
If any of the above apply to you or a friend, you can call these numbers:
Remember, you are not alone.
1 in 4 women and 1 in 7 men will experience domestic abuse over the course of their lifetime.
Every 30 seconds the police receive a call for help relating to domestic abuse.
