A SENIOR police officer has described killer Matthew Sheridan as "callous and remorseless" after the savage murder of Louis Bednall.
Senior investigating officer DCI Phil Walker paints a picture of Sheridan's "explosive violence" as he stabbed Mr Bednall several times.
The murderer then went on to deny being responsible, trying to lay the blame on his friend.
In contrast, Mr Bednall is described as a "loving and caring family man" always prepared to help others who "made friends wherever he went".
DCI Walker, of the Major Crime Investigation Team, said: “This man carried out a relentless and savage attack on Louis Bednall in front of his friends. The level of explosive violence he used in those moments beggars belief.
“Afterwards, he returned to his friend’s flat and recorded a series of videos which were posted on social media. A further video, which was not posted, depicts a man who was callous and remorseless in the aftermath of the horrific act he had just committed.
MURDERER: Matthew Sheridan.
“He has refused to take any responsibility for his actions, instead trying to blame someone else and repeatedly telling lies in a vain attempt to evade justice.
“A significant investigation was carried out resulting in 200 hours of CCTV camera footage being viewed, 231 statements taken and 611 exhibits seized.
“Louis was a loving and caring family man. A father and grandfather who went out of his way to help others and made friends wherever he went; his death leaves a huge gap in the lives of many. It was Louis’ determination to diffuse a situation and protect the friends he was visiting that has sadly cost him his life.
“I would like to thank my team for their hard work, dedication and professionalism over the last eight months to see justice served. Louis has been at the centre of our thoughts throughout our investigation.
“Finally I would like to again offer my sincere condolences to Louis’ family who have had to sit and listen to repeated lies and some very disturbing evidence throughout the trial.
“They have held themselves with grace and dignity throughout, showing a united strength that is beyond comprehension in such horrendous circumstances. I hope that today’s verdict helps them to feel a sense of justice but I am acutely aware that this does not come close to filling the gap they all feel in their hearts. Our thoughts remain with them.”
READ MORE: Matthew Sheridan found guilty of Louis Bednall's murder.
READ MORE: Video of Sheridan in the building where he killed Louis Bednall.
READ MORE: CCTV images of Sheridan as he contemplated killing Mr Bednall.
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