Bristol: A 17-year-old boy, Mali Bennett-Smith, has been sentenced for murdering his older sister, Luka, in Bristol.
He asked Luka, 19, if he could practice a headlock on her at their home.
Instead of releasing her as agreed, he tightened the chokehold and then stabbed her multiple times.
Twenty minutes later, he called 999, confessing to the murder and expressing long-standing hatred toward her.
The incident occurred on October 20 last year while they were alone at home.
Courtroom Decision
Judge William Hart sentenced Bennett-Smith to detention with a minimum term of 10 years and five months.
The judge stated that Luka’s death had left their parents devastated, losing two children at once.
He emphasized the brutal nature of the crime and Bennett-Smith’s clear intent to kill.
The use of a knife and prolonged violence were considered significant aggravating factors.
Paramedics who responded to the scene were left deeply impacted by what they witnessed.
Family Background
Bennett-Smith was raised on a remote farm in New Zealand and was home-schooled.
After his parents’ divorce, he moved to the UK with his mother and sister to prepare for the Army.
He later dropped out of college, leaving his plans for military service behind.
According to police reports, he had long resented his sister, who had ADHD.
In a statement, he admitted he was angry at how she treated him and planned to kill her.
Lifting Anonymity
Initially, Bennett-Smith’s identity was protected under UK law due to his age.
However, the judge lifted the anonymity order after media requests.
The court agreed that revealing his identity was necessary due to rising concerns over knife crime.
Particularly in Bristol, public awareness of violent crime has significantly increased.
The decision allows for a full understanding of the case’s impact on the community.
Police Statement
Detective Inspector Nadine Partridge expressed sympathy for Luka’s grieving family.
Specially trained officers are providing support to the family during this painful time.
Authorities continue to stress the dangers of knife crime and youth violence.
The tragedy has sparked further discussions on mental health and family conflicts.
Bennett-Smith will remain in detention under strict supervision for at least a decade.
