SYDENHAM: 'Double jeopardy' killer given two life sentences (From News Shopper)

SYDENHAM: 'Double jeopardy' killer given two life sentences

5:04pm Friday 3rd July 2009 in

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THE first person ever convicted under double jeopardy law in London has been sentenced to a minimum of 23 years in prison.

Mario Celaire, of Sydenham Road, Sydenham, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Cassandra McDermott in May.

The 31-year-old had been found not guilty of her murder at a trial in February 2002.

New evidence against him emerged after he admitted his guilt to another ex-girlfriend he also subjected to a vicious attack.

His conviction is the first following a change in legislation enabling a person to be prosecuted again for serious offences such as murder.

Miss McDermott, 19, was killed by Celaire in Norbury in October 2001 after an argument over her damaging a car she borrowed from him.

She choked on the contents of her stomach as she lay unconscious after he punched her in the face.

Detective Chief Inspector Nick Scola, from the Met Police’s homicide and serious crime command, said: "I would like to pay tribute to two people. Firstly Cassandra's mother, Jennifer.

“It is testament to her courage and determination in fighting for justice for Cassie this day was reached.

Hammer attack

"I would also like to pay tribute to Kara Hoyte whose bravery and determination to give evidence against Celaire, despite receiving near fatal head injuries, was astonishing.”

Celaire’s conviction, six years and six months after he was initially found not guilty of the killing, began when he tried to murder ex-girlfriend Miss Hoyte in 2007.

Miss Hoyte - who was smashed over the head with a hammer by Celaire - recovered from her injuries and told officers she had challenged Celaire about what happened to Miss McDermott.

Celaire pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Miss McDermott and the attempted murder of Miss Hoyte.

At the Old Bailey today (July 3), he was given a life sentence for manslaughter and told he would serve a minimum of eight years.

He was handed another life sentence for attempted murder and told he would serve at least 23 years, to run concurrently.