Man who stabbed Birmingham mum 'more than a dozen times' jailed

Anthony Hoey had pleaded guilty to the murder of Frances Dwyer, as well as to two counts of theft, aggravated vehicle taking and dangerous driving, at Birmingham Crown Court and was sentenced to life with a minimum term of 21 years in prison.

The 50-year-old had stabbed 48-year-old Ms Dwyer more than a dozen times at her home in Tile Cross on March 30 last year, then fled the address in her car.

He was pursued by officers after it had been reported stolen a week earlier, with the car eventually coming to a stop after it was stung by traffic officers and Hoey was detained after being Tasered. 

He had also claimed to be armed with a gun, which West Midlands Police said was a lie.

Following his arrest, officers attended Ms Dwyer's home where the 48-year-old was found dead, with Hoey pleading guilty to her murder on February 6.

The family of Ms Dwyer released an emotional tribute: “No amount of time will be justice for what happened to our mom and daughter. It’s almost a year since that monster took her life and it still hurts us every single day.

“We finally have some closure today, as we see that man be sentenced. We can finally grieve in peace without the stress of court dates and what’s going to happen.

“As a family we would like to thank everyone who has supported us through this terrible time. A message to our beautiful mother and daughter in heaven. 

"You are always in our hearts and thought about every single day.  A piece of us will always be missing, but we know you’re watching over us and keeping us safe.”