Suffolk: Man Jailed for Murder

26 September 2012, 15:27 | Updated: 26 September 2012, 16:07

A man's been jailed after a murder in Bury St Edmunds in Suffolk.

A 49-year old Mark Turner from Cockfield has today, 26 September 2012, been sentenced to a 22 year prison term, having been found guilty of murder following the death of Robin Lionnet in February this year.

Mark Turner was found guilty by jury on Thursday 30th August, following a trial lasting 2 weeks, having denied the charge of murder.  He must serve a minimum of 22 years.

Police were called to reports of an altercation outside an address in Ashwell Road, Bury St Edmunds, shortly before midnight on Monday 20th February 2012. On arrival at the scene, police found 42-year-old Robin Lionnet lying injured in the rear garden of his home and Mr Turner sitting in a vehicle outside the property.

Mr Lionnet was taken to West Suffolk Hospital where he later died.  A post mortem examination identified the cause of death as a single stab wound to the lung.  The puncture wound was consistent with a screwdriver recovered from Mr Turner’s vehicle.

Mr Turner was arrested at the scene on suspicion of murder and taken to the Bury St Edmunds Police investigation Centre.  On Wednesday 22nd February he was charged with murder.

Detective Chief Inspector Steve Mattin said “This was a tragic case in which an argument led to a violent attack which took the life of a man. Our sympathies remain with the family and friends of Mr Lionnet.

“Crimes of this severity are extremely rare in Suffolk and in this case, both men were known to each other, with no threat being posed to the wider community. 

“The case highlights the danger of committing acts of violence and the tragic outcomes they can result in.  Disputes that end in violence can have severe consequences and we are committed to ensuring that anyone responsible for this type of crime is held fully accountable for their actions.”