Tony Devenport, 57, has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his partner, 41-year-old Stephanie Blundell, in Chester, England, in July 2024. Blundell was found dead in their shared home by her father, Philip Blundell, who discovered Devenport wandering the house intoxicated and muttering, “I think she’s dead.” The Crown Prosecution Service reported that Blundell’s body was found on a blood-soaked mattress, showing signs of serious injuries and bruising.
Details of the Murder and Devenport’s Actions
Prosecutors revealed that Devenport made no attempt to help Blundell, despite her severe condition. When questioned by officers, he denied involvement, stating he had “not done anything” and suggested that Blundell’s drinking had caused her condition. Later, Devenport admitted to grabbing Blundell’s arm during an argument and dragging her onto the mattress. He claimed to have tried to comfort her, believing she died peacefully before her father arrived. However, paramedics and police discovered blood on Devenport’s hands and could not find a reasonable explanation for the numerous injuries and over 100 bruises on Blundell’s body.
Devenport Sentenced to Life Without Parole for 22 Years
In court, the prosecution revealed that Blundell had been subjected to severe physical abuse and neglect in the days before her death. Devenport had isolated her in their home, feeding her only alcohol and “ice lollies.” Blundell’s death was ruled to be the result of multiple injuries, worsened by chronic alcoholism. The injuries included brain trauma, fractures to the thyroid, bruising consistent with strangulation, and extensive facial bruising. At trial, Devenport admitted to slapping Blundell but could not explain the other injuries found on her body. On February 26, 2026, he was convicted of murder and sentenced to life in prison, with a minimum of 22 years before he can be considered for parole.
