Donald Payne, 62, of Dinmore Avenue, Blackpool, has been sentenced to life imprisonment at Preston Crown Court for the fatal stabbing of his partner, Simone Ambler.
Payne must serve a minimum of 12 years before he can apply for parole after pleading guilty to manslaughter in connection with the death of Simone Ambler in March 2021.
Police were called to Payne’s home late on the evening of March 29, 2021, following reports of a stabbing. Officers arrived to find 49-year-old Simone Ambler dead at the scene.
A post-mortem examination confirmed that Simone Ambler died from multiple stab wounds.
Payne was arrested at the scene. During a call to the Ambulance Service, he admitted to stabbing Simone following an argument.
Forensic investigators found blood on Payne’s hands, feet, and jeans, and recovered a bloodied knife from the arm of his chair.
Initially charged with murder, Payne’s plea was later reduced to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility after discussions with the Crown Prosecution Service.
Detective Chief Inspector Jane Webb of Lancashire Police expressed sympathy for the victim’s family, saying, “This is a truly tragic case where the victim, Simone Ambler, lost her life after a violent assault from Donald Payne.”
She added, “Payne admitted lashing out following an argument, with Miss Ambler suffering fatal wounds. My thoughts remain with her devastated family. I hope today’s sentencing gives them some closure.”
Detective Chief Inspector Webb also commended the professionalism of the officers involved, stating, “I also want to commend the professionalism of officers who faced a harrowing scene and worked tirelessly throughout this investigation, alongside our colleagues at the CPS.”
Originally published by UKNIP.
