A Nottinghamshire man who meticulously planned and executed the brutal hammer murder of his wife's lover has been handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 21 years.
Michael Cope, 51, flew into a vengeful rage after discovering his wife's affair with 42-year-old David Twigg. The court heard how Cope's jealousy festered until he enacted a deadly plan of retribution.
A Calculated Attack
Nottingham Crown Court was told how Cope armed himself with a hammer and lay in wait for Mr Twigg outside the victim's workplace in Hucknall. In a vicious and sustained attack, Cope struck Mr Twigg multiple times in the head with the weapon.
"This was not a spontaneous act of violence," the prosecutor stated. "The evidence shows clear premeditation and planning."
Discovery of the Affair
The court heard how Cope's marriage had been deteriorating, and his suspicions about his wife's relationship with Mr Twigg were confirmed shortly before the fatal attack. Witnesses described Cope as being "consumed by anger and betrayal" upon learning the truth.
Detective Chief Inspector Clare Dean, who led the investigation, described the murder as "a brutal and calculated attack born from jealousy."
Justice Served
Mr Justice Pepperall, passing sentence, told Cope: "You took the law into your own hands with devastating consequences." The judge emphasized that the severity of the sentence reflected the premeditated nature of the crime and the use of a weapon.
The victim's family described David Twigg as "a much-loved son, brother and friend" whose life was tragically cut short by Cope's violent actions.
