A woman who was convicted for murder after setting her spouse on fire in May 2017, was sentenced to life in prison in the Home Circuit Court in downtown Kingston on Friday.
Serita Housen Blair must serve 18 years before being eligible for parole.
Blair, who is in her 40s, pleaded guilty to murder on February 9 this year, after her attorney cut a deal with prosecutors.
As Justice Vaughn Smith handed down the sentence, tears flowed down Blair’s face in the dock.
Justice Smith said it appeared as though the offence was premeditated.
He pointed out that Blair’s actions followed an argument with her common-law partner, Kenton Brown on May 27, 2017, where she accused him of cheating with his children’s caregiver.
Justice Smith said Blair apparently left home on Espeut Avenue, Kingston 11, to purchase gasoline. Upon her return she attacked Brown as he slept, dousing him with gasoline and setting him ablaze.
Two of Brown’s children were present at the home at the time of the gruesome incident.
Brown succumbed to his injuries four days later.
Justice Smith said the court cannot turn a blind eye to the fact that Blair’s actions endangered the lives of the children.
Blair’s guilty plea, her favourable social enquiry and antecedent reports were considered as mitigating factors.
She also had no previous conviction.
Justice Smith said Blair is “redeemable” as she showed remorse and has taken responsibility for her actions.
What's Your Reaction?
-
1
-
0
-
0
-
1
-
0
-
0
-
1
-
0
-
0
-
1
-
0
-
0
