Woman's killer to be sentenced at end of the month

A man who killed a mother in her home in Lincolnshire will be sentenced later this month following delays due to psychiatric assessments.

Kristine Sparane, 37, was found by police covered in blood on a bed at her flat in Winsover Road, Spalding, on 26 November 2024.

Brian Simpson, 64, of Nene Court, Spalding, was found by a jury to have killed Sparane, and he will be sentenced on 30 April.

He was initially charged with murder but a trial of facts was held in May last year after he was deemed unfit to face trial due to his mental health.

A hearing at Lincoln Crown Court in February was told Simpson's first psychiatric report had taken longer than anticipated and would not be ready until the end of March.

On Thursday, the court heard that Simpson had now been assessed by two defence psychiatrists, but a further report would be required from a prosecution psychiatrist.

Evidence will also be needed from a psychiatrist to confirm that Simpson is suitable for a hospital order without any time restriction.

A judge will then decide whether he will be detained in a secure mental hospital for an indefinite period.

Judge Simon Hirst adjourned the case until 30 April.

Sparane, a supermarket worker, suffered a number of blunt force injuries to her head and a severe skull fracture.

After hearing evidence of her injuries, the jury decided during the trial of facts that Simpson was responsible for her death.

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