Man jailed for life for murdering partner

A man has been jailed for life with a minimum of 24 years after he was found guilty of his partner.

Dale Vincent Cole, 39, of Burton-on-Trent, has been sentenced at Stafford Crown Court today (Tuesday 24 March). He was found guilty of his partner Lisa Holland’s murder on Friday.

He was also found guilty of counts of Section 18 – grievous bodily harm with intent on Friday and pleaded guilty to controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship last month.

Thirty-nine-year-old Lisa Holland died at her home on Victoria Cresent, Burton-on-Trent, where she lived with Cole, on 20 October 2022.

After Cole attacked Lisa, he simply left her and did nothing to help her until it was too late. When he rang 999 at 6.23pm, an hour and a half after evidence shows she was unconscious, she had already died. He told West Midlands Ambulance Service that his partner ‘had fallen down the stairs’. He was arrested a short time later on suspicion of Lisa’s murder.

Lisa’s significant internal injuries were caused by Cole – in an attack and were far too severe to have been caused by any kind of accidental fall down the stairs.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Ian Fitzgerald, of our Major Investigations Department, said: “Dale Cole is a violent, cowardly offender whose sustained abuse and brutality ended in the murder of a vulnerable woman who should have been safe in her own home.

“Lisa Holland endured coercive control, intimidation, and fear at the hands of someone who claimed to care for her. On 20 October 2022, Cole’s final attack inflicted catastrophic internal injuries. Instead of seeking help, he left Lisa to die, waiting an hour and a half before calling 999 – knowing full well she could not be saved.

“Cole then attempted to cover up his actions with a blatant lie, claiming Lisa had ‘fallen down the stairs’. Medical evidence made clear that her injuries were far too severe, far too extensive, and absolutely incompatible with any accidental fall. This was a deliberate, violent assault.

“Today’s sentence reflects the sheer cruelty of Cole’s actions and his complete lack of remorse. He has offered nothing to help Lisa’s family understand why he stole her life. His cowardice continues even now.

“Our thoughts remain with Lisa’s family, who have shown extraordinary dignity throughout this investigation and trial. We hope this outcome provides at least some measure of comfort as they continue to rebuild their lives.

“Domestic abuse destroys families, futures, and lives. If you are experiencing abuse – physical, emotional, financial or coercive and controlling – please talk to someone, a police officer or someone from another agency. We will listen. We will take action. And we will do everything in our power to protect you.”