Man sentenced to life behind bars after being convicted of murder

Steven Coulter was found dead at an address in Heaton. Jason Downey, seen here in the picture, was found guilty of murder. Credit: ITV Tyne Tees/Northumbria Police

A 45-year-old man is beginning a life sentence, serving 25 years minimum, after being found guilty of the murder of 59-year-old Steven Coulter.

Jason Downey, 45, of Heaton Hall Road was sentenced on Thursday, November 9 following a trial at Newcastle Crown Court.

Steven Coulter's body was found at a property in Heaton. Credit: Northumbria Police

The body of Mr Coulter, a vulnerable adult living in supported accommodation, was discovered by a friend in his home earlier this year, on Thursday, July 13.

He was found with a stab wound to his chest, where he had lain dead since Sunday, July 9.

A bottle found at the scene had Downey's fingerprint and the victim's blood on it.Detective Inspector David English said:

Coulter Family statement: