Jealous ex-boyfriend jailed for murder of mother-of-two

Detective Constable Des Nellany read a statement on behalf of Linzi Ashton's family.

Greater Manchester Police called the level of violence during Michael Cope's attack on Linzi Ashton "shocking" and that "nobody deserves such a fate".

Superintendent Wayne Miller said today: “The family of Linzi Ashton remain heartbroken by what has happened. Michael Cope not only took away a life in its prime, he has deprived two young girls of their mother.

“Linzi suffered a history of domestic abuse with Cope, who wanted to manipulate her and wanted to control her. He was already wanted by the police when he carried out this hideous act.

“We continue to learn lessons to better protect victims of domestic abuse and give victim’s the confidence to report. We await the outcome of the IPCC [Independent Police Complaints Commission] investigation."

Read: Jealous ex-boyfriend jailed for murder of mother-of-two

Judge Mr Justice Parker told Michael Cope as he sentenced him to life imprisonment for the "deliberate and calculating" murder of his ex-girlfriend Linzi Ashton:

A jealous and paranoid ex-boyfriend has been jailed for life for the "remorseless" murder of a mother-of-two.

Michael Cope, 28, strangled and beat Linzi Ashton, who suffered 108 separate injuries in an hour-long attack at her home before going on the run, Manchester Crown Court heard.

Around 40 members of her family and friends wept as the court was told of the injuries she suffered while being beaten and strangled to death.

Cope, from Salford, admitted murder and three counts of assault yesterday. A single charge of rape was ordered to lie on file.

He was told he must serve a minimum of 27 years before being considered for parole.

Michael Cope, 28, was jailed for life at Manchester Crown Court today with a minimum of 27 years for the murder of his ex-girlfriend, mother-of-two Linzi Ashton.