Overview

• Simon Vickers, 50, was convicted of murdering his daughter Scarlett, 14, by stabbing her in the heart during a kitchen play-fight in July 2024.
• The Solicitor General referred the 15-year minimum sentence to the Court of Appeal, arguing it was unduly lenient and failed to reflect the seriousness of the crime.
• Three senior judges ruled the sentence was not unduly lenient, describing it as a 'justifiable and humane resolution' of a complex case.
• The sentencing judge had noted Vickers acted in a 'momentary but devastating act of anger' without premeditation or intent to kill, and weighed mitigating factors including his remorse.
• The Court of Appeal's decision finalizes the legal proceedings, affirming the original sentence as proportionate despite its 'merciful' nature.