NORTH Wales Police have paid their condolences following the "incredibly tragic case" which has seen 47-year-old Emma Berry sentenced to life with a minimum of 16 years for the murder of 31-year-old Flintshire man Dean Michael Bennett.

Mr Bennett was fatally stabbed once in the chest by Berry in his own room at the Old Quay House home of multiple occupation in Connah's Quay on the evening of May 22.

Berry, who was the victim of domestic violence and heavily intoxicated at the time of the incident, initially pleaded not guilty to murder but changed her plea on the day her trial was due to begin on Monday, December 6.

Now North Wales Police have issued a statement following Berry's sentencing, which sees her serving a minimum of 16 years before she can be considered eligible for parole.

Detective Chief Inspector Chris Bell, from the Major Incident Team said: “This is an incredibly tragic case which saw a young man lose his life as a result of a single stab wound.

“Dean’s family have understandably been left devastated by his death and the thoughts of the entire investigation team remain with them at this difficult time.

DCI Bell added: "Our deepest sympathies go out to Dean’s family and friends for their loss.

"This tragic case is a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of knife crime.

“The use of a bladed weapon often has catastrophic consequences for the victim, their family and the perpetrator. I urge you to think twice about using such a weapon. As this case demonstrates, the senseless use of a knife has resulted in the tragic death of a much-loved father, son, brother and friend to many.

“I acknowledge the sentence imposed today and I hope it will provide some degree of closure to Dean’s family. I hope it will bring them, and the community, a small degree of justice.”

Dean’s family said: “As a family we wish to the thank the police and all those involved for all their hard work, and the speed at which the investigation has been dealt with. The support we have received from our family, friends and the wider community has been overwhelming.”

Whilst the prevalence of knife crime in north Wales is low, North Wales Police said it is committed to bringing offenders to justice.