The chilling details of one of Britain's most disturbing murders have been laid bare as two teenage killers were sentenced to life in prison for the "exceptionally brutal" killing of 16-year-old Brianna Ghey.
Scarlett Jenkinson, 16, and Eddie Ratcliffe, 16, were handed minimum terms of 22 and 20 years respectively for the premeditated murder that a judge described as stemming from "a deep desire to kill."
A Murder Planned in Cold Blood
The court heard how the teenagers, just 15 at the time, meticulously planned the killing in February 2023, using a hunting knife to stab Brianna 28 times in a park in Culcheth, Warrington.
Justice Amanda Yip stated the murder involved "sadistic" motivation and a significant level of planning. The pair had discussed killing other children before settling on Brianna as their victim.
Disturbing Evidence Revealed
Prosecutors revealed the killers had compiled a "kill list" of other potential victims and had exchanged messages discussing their murderous plans. Jenkinson had even drafted a murder plan in her notebook, which was discovered by investigators.
The court was told that Ratcliffe, who has been diagnosed with autism, referred to Brianna using transphobic language, though the judge noted this was not determined to be the primary motivation for the killing.
A Family's Unimaginable Loss
Brianna's mother, Esther Ghey, delivered a powerful victim impact statement, describing her daughter as "funny, witty and fearless" while speaking of the unimaginable pain of losing her child to such violence.
She expressed hope that the teenagers would eventually show genuine remorse for their actions, stating: "I don't believe that someone who is evil can ever show remorse."
Sentencing and Aftermath
Justice Yip emphasized the exceptional seriousness of the case, noting the young age of the defendants made it particularly troubling. The minimum terms mean Jenkinson will serve at least 22 years before parole consideration, while Ratcliffe must serve 20 years.
The case has sparked nationwide discussions about youth violence, mental health support for young people, and the influence of dark online content on vulnerable minds.
