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Family of Murdered Mother Marks 10 Years of Grief, Calls for Justice Reform

Alison Connolly's family criticizes sentencing disparities and perceived leniency, as one sister remains imprisoned and the other was released early.

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Overview

  • Alison Connolly, a mother of eight, was fatally stabbed in Swindon, Wiltshire, on May 12, 2015, by sisters Charice and Amberstasia Gassmann.
  • Charice was convicted of murder and sentenced to life with a 19-year minimum, while Amberstasia was convicted of manslaughter and released on licence in 2021 after serving half of her 12-year term.
  • The family describes their ongoing trauma, stating they feel as though they are serving a 'life sentence' due to the loss and lack of closure.
  • Alison's daughter, Tara Proffitt, alleges the killing was premeditated and criticizes the justice system for what she views as inadequate sentencing and leniency.
  • On the 10th anniversary of Alison's death, the family renewed public calls for justice reform, highlighting broader concerns about sentencing disparities in the UK criminal justice system.