Two men have been handed life sentences for the brutal murder of a man following a petty dispute that began on Facebook. Nathan Black, 27, and Timothy Trautsch, 46, were convicted of killing Dezi Freeman in a 'sustained and vicious attack' that shocked the community.
The court heard how a minor online altercation spiralled into a fatal confrontation. Mr Freeman, 36, was subjected to a violent assault by the two defendants, who then left him for dead in a property in the Gleadless area.
A Vicious and Sustained Attack
Prosecutors detailed how the attack was one of extreme brutality. Following the Facebook exchange, Black and Trautsch hunted down Mr Freeman and carried out the murder. The judge, Mr Justice Nicklin, condemned their actions, stating the level of violence used was severe and that they had shown no remorse for their crime.
Life Behind Bars
Nathan Black was ordered to serve a minimum of 26 years before being eligible for parole. His accomplice, Timothy Trautsch, received a slightly longer minimum term of 27 years. The sentencing at Sheffield Crown Court brings a form of closure to a case that has highlighted the terrifying real-world consequences of online arguments.
The family of Dezi Freeman, who was described as a much-loved man, continue to grieve their devastating loss. This case serves as a stark warning about how quickly digital disagreements can escalate into unimaginable tragedy.
