'Violent and controlling' man jailed for murder

A "violent" and "controlling" man who subjected his partner to "sustained and horrific abuse" before beating her to death has been given a life sentence for her murder.

Lisa Holland, 39, was found dead on 20 October 2022 in the house she shared with Dale Cole in Burton-upon-Trent.

Cole, 39, had inflicted serious internal injuries, and prosecutors said Holland's death was the culmination of a "long period of abuse" in which she had suffered at least 30 rib fractures at his hands.

In addition to murder, he was convicted of three counts of grievous bodily harm with intent and was told he must serve a minimum sentence of 24 years in jail.

Cole had previously admitted controlling or coercive behaviour towards Holland between October 2018 and October 2022.

During a trial at Stafford Crown Court, prosecutor Edward Brown KC told the court that Cole was violent and manipulative and had controlled Holland, who suffered with alcohol dependency and was vulnerable. He also controlled her money, the jury heard.

On one occasion, Cole told Holland to "stop going on about it" after she complained of pain in her head and face.

In the moments leading up to Holland's murder, Cole, after finishing work, had returned to their home on Victoria Crescent at 16:19 BST to find the front door locked and the key inside the door.

He finally got into the property about 10 minutes later and was "plainly furious", the jury heard.

Prosecutors said the attack likely took place at the top of the stairs before Holland either fell or was placed at the bottom of the steps.

A post-mortem examination found signs of at least 40 rib fractures, with at least 30 of those having been inflicted in the previous weeks and months, the court was told.

Analysis of her bank account found more than 50 deposits were made by the DWP between January 2019 and October 2022, with 50 payments, totalling £35,000, transferred to Cole with references including "debt to society" and "Lisa loves Dale".

Det Ch Insp Ian Fitzgerald described Cole as "a violent, cowardly offender".

"Lisa Holland endured coercive control, intimidation, and fear at the hands of someone who claimed to care for her," he said.

"Medical evidence made clear that her injuries were far too severe, far too extensive, and absolutely incompatible with any accidental fall.

"This was a deliberate, violent assault."

He added: "Today's sentence reflects the sheer cruelty of Cole's actions and his complete lack of remorse.

"He has offered nothing to help Lisa's family understand why he stole her life. His cowardice continues even now."

"Our thoughts remain with Lisa's family, who have shown extraordinary dignity throughout this investigation and trial.

"We hope this outcome provides at least some measure of comfort as they continue to rebuild their lives."

In a tribute shared by police, Holland's family described her as having an "illuminating smile and infectious laughter that would light up any room".

They said: "Dale Cole ended Lisa's life in the most cruel and violent way on 20 October 2022. The devastation this has caused and the pain we have and continue to endure is almost too much to bear. She will be hugely missed, remaining forever in our hearts."

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