People across Liverpool said they were pleased to see "justice finally served" for Olivia Pratt-Korbel.
Thomas Cashman was jailed for life with a minimum term of 42 years for the murder of Olivia, who was shot dead in her own home on Kingsheath Avenue in Dovecot in one of the most horrific crimes in Merseyside's history.
Cashman, 34, of Grenadier Drive in West Derby, was unanimously found guilty of murdering the nine-year-old schoolgirl by a jury on Thursday last week. Cashman was due to return to court this afternoon, Monday April 4, but refused to appear in the dock to hear his sentence.
READ MORE: 'All I want is my baby back': Olivia Pratt-Korbel's dad's heartbreaking words as killer sentenced
Justice Amanda Yip described his actions as "disrespectful to the family of the deceased". Gasps were heard among Olivia's family as the sentence was passed with one man heard to say "yes", while Olivia's mum Cheryl Korbel was seen dabbing her eyes with a tissue.
Hundreds of ECHO readers reacted to the news of Cashman's sentencing. Sarah Parkinson said: "Brilliant news."
Ellie Griffiths said: "Good!! Cowardly excuse for a man!"
Jan Poole said: "Well done hope he never gets out."
Leanne Thompson said: "Amazing news poor girl lost her life to a monster."
Katie Ellison said: "Couldn't be any happier, amazing news."
Debra Connor said: "Nothing can bring that innocent baby back to her family, but finally a sentence that fits the crime."
Hayley Wallem said: "Real justice served right there, it will never bring little Olivia back but this sentence is justice. Thoughts are with Olivia's family today."
Claire Harvey said: "Finally some justice for Olivia & her beloved family." Becca Swanson similarly added: "Justice finally served."
Normally in the criminal courts in the UK, cameras are strictly forbidden. However as part of a trial scheme that has been ongoing for several months, selected media organisations have been granted permission to film and broadcast the sentencing remarks of judges in certain high profile cases.
Trial judge, Mrs Justice Yip, granted permission for her sentencing remarks to be broadcast today. Diane Hughes was among the ECHO readers to praise the judge, writing: "she’s very thorough."
Laydee Langlois said: "This judge is ensuring his appeal attempts are minimal, very, very impressive." While Natalie Bleasdale said: "Well done judge."
Lacey Helen added: "Judge done good, so much love to Olivia’s family."
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