Edenbridge man jailed for life after beating woman to death

A murderer has been jailed for life after beating his girlfriend to death during an argument in Edenbridge.

Huseyin Kalyoncu, aged 34, must serve at least 19 years in prison before he will be considered for parole after being sentenced at Maidstone Crown Court on Wednesday 11 December 2024.

The killer was arrested by Kent Police on 5 May 2024 after he knocked Sonia Parker unconscious at the Styles Close home they shared following a dispute over her use of WhatsApp.

Paramedics attempted to revive the 51-year-old, but she was pronounced deceased shortly after.

Kalyoncu was arrested in connection with her death and remanded in custody before appearing at Maidstone Crown Court on 13 June 2024, where he pleaded guilty to manslaughter, but denied murdering Ms Parker.

During a trial, the court heard how Ms Parker died as a result of some of her 69 injuries, which included internal bruising, damage to her liver, and multiple bone fractures across her body.

A pathologist determined some of the injuries predated her death by weeks.

Detective Superintendent Kathleen Way, said:

‘Kalyoncu killed the woman he allegedly loved after subjecting her to a sustained campaign of physical abuse in the weeks leading up to her death. ‘In denying his part in the murder of Ms Parker, Kalyoncu has subsequently forced the victim’s family and friends to relive their loss over and over again during the court trial. ‘His inability to control his temper and abhorrent behaviour means he will now serve a minimum of 19 years’ imprisonment before he will even be considered for parole. ‘I hope his lengthy custodial sentence provides Sonia’s family and friends with some comfort and that the conclusion of the trial will give them time to grieve their loved one.’

There are different types of domestic abuse, and it affects people in different ways. Find out what is classed as domestic abuse and the ways to report it on our advice pages. Always call 999 in an emergency.