Mitchell given life imprisonment

After concluding his remarks, the court sentenced Mitchell to life in prison, with a minimum term of 34 years.

The days she was detained on remand will be subtracted, leaving 475 days, and the statutory surcharge will be charged.

The murderer showed 'no remorse and is in complete denial

The fact that Mitchell "is practically a lady of previously good character" is the only mitigating factor, according to the judge, while determining the minimum period for Mitchell.

Although in my judgment that only entitles you to a very minor discount, given the seriousness of your offense, he continues.

According to Judge Marks, the following are the aggravating features:

"First and foremost, the degree of planning and premeditation that went into this crime, although it is appropriate to recognize that this is bound to be an invariable aspect of a killing done for gain and I must avoid double counting in that regard.

Thirdly, there is the chilling aspect of what you did to and with her body after you had killed her. I've already mentioned Deborah's mental and physical vulnerability, and you are well aware of it.

He continues, "Despite what in my opinion amounts to the overwhelming evidence against you, you have shown absolutely no remorse and it appears that you are completely in denial about what you did.

The severity of your crime is deeply shocking, made all the more so by the fact that Deborah Chong was a close friend of yours and had shown you a lot of kindness.