The heartbroken family of a beloved grandmother murdered by a mental health nurse have spoken of their torment after her killer walked free from prison having served just 11 months.
Colin Brewer, 47, was convicted of killing 65-year-old Lynne Freeman at her home in King's Lynn, Norfolk, in a brutal attack that left her family devastated. Despite receiving a life sentence, Brewer has been released on licence, leaving Lynne's relatives feeling betrayed by a justice system they believe has failed them.
A Life Cut Short
Lynne Freeman, described by her family as a "beautiful soul" who would "help anyone," had her life brutally ended by a man entrusted with caring for vulnerable people. Her daughter, Stacey Freeman, revealed the ongoing nightmare her family endures, knowing Brewer is free while they serve a life sentence of grief.
"We're the ones doing life, not him," Stacey told the Mirror. "He's taken my mum's life and he's taken our family's life as well."
Justice Denied
The family's anguish is compounded by what they see as a grossly inadequate punishment. Brewer was given a life sentence but told he would serve a minimum of just two years and 18 days. With time served on remand, he has now been released after approximately 11 months in prison.
"He's taken a life and he's served 11 months - that's not justice," Stacey said, highlighting the disproportionate nature of the sentence compared to their eternal loss.
A Family's Unending Pain
Lynne's family continue to struggle with their loss, describing how special occasions and everyday moments are now overshadowed by grief. Stacey poignantly described how she still expects to see her mother when visiting familiar places, only to be struck anew by the reality of her absence.
The trauma has been particularly devastating for Lynne's elderly mother, who has been left broken by the murder of her daughter. The family now faces the additional burden of knowing the man responsible for their pain is free to rebuild his life while theirs remains shattered.
System Failure
The case raises serious questions about sentencing for violent crimes and the support available to victims' families. Despite Brewer's conviction for murder, the family feel the justice system has prioritized the killer's rehabilitation over their need for justice and closure.
As they attempt to navigate life without their beloved mother and grandmother, Lynne's family are left wondering how a life sentence could mean freedom after less than a year, and whether true justice will ever be served.
