John O'Rourke convicted of Stoke Climsland Murder
By katef1 | Sunday, December 04, 2011, 15:25
On 27th September 2010 the body of 55-year-old Amanda Sorrell was found at a property in Stoke Climsland near Callington. John O' Rourke, who was found severely injured at the scene, was arrested on suspicion of murder. O'Rourke, 66, was found guilty of the crime on Thursday 1st December 2011 at Truro Crown Court.
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John O'Rourke - found guilty of Stoke Climsland murder
Following the verdict, DI Ian Ringrose commented: "This was a brutal crime which led to the tragic loss of life of an innocent and well-respected woman who had everything to live for.
"Amanda Sorrell suffered numerous injuries during what was a sustained and vicious attack at the hands of John O' Rourke.
"He has shown no remorse and has offered no explanation for his actions.
"Amanda was devoted to her family and many friends and was very well thought of in her local area.
"The terrible events of 27 September 2010 will without doubt live with Amanda's family for the rest of their lives and our thoughts are with them at this most difficult and sensitive time."
The Sorrell family have released the following statement on Thursday:
Amanda Jane Sorrell was a devoted mother, sister, auntie and dear friend to all. She is greatly missed every day and will be treasured in our hearts forever.
For those who knew Amanda, her kind and gentle personality could turn tears of sadness to those of joy and laughter. She was an independent, honest and hard-working person who achieved a Managerial position within the Registration Department of Cornwall Council.
When Amanda was not working, she loved to spend time with her family and friends, or with her dog, Max. She enjoyed her peaceful life in the country, spending time in the garden and was a fantastic host at dinner parties.
When we heard of our mother's horrific death on Monday 27th September 2010, our worlds fell apart. Amanda was only 55 when her life was taken, just 3 weeks before the birth of her first grandchild – something she was looking forward to more than anything.
It's impossible to begin to understand the coward and selfish actions of John who violently murdered our Mother. We will never know why he did what he did but we are grateful that Johns failed suicide attempt has lead us to where we are today and that justice can be served on him. We take comfort knowing that he did not succeed with taking his own life after he took our Mothers, and hope that the memory of his actions haunt him until the day he finally dies alone.
Even with the support and best efforts from the police officers in charge we have still had to endure many delays; these delays have resulted in a fourteen-month wait for the trial and the sentence to finally be heard. During this time John has shown no remorse for our Mother or her family and friends.
We are glad that today John O'Rourke has finally been found guilty of murdering our Mum.
We will always be shocked and perplexed that this has happened to such a lovely person. Mum lives on in us, and although we will never understand or accept reason for Mums death, with the trial now over will we can continue to try to rebuild our lives.
