Murder victim Alyson Nelson
William (Bill) Finlay was sentenced today, Thursday 25 January 2024, for the murder of Alyson Nelson in Whitehead in 2022.
The defendant was handed a life sentence last November, after pleading guilty to murder aggravated by domestic abuse.
Today, the 68-year-old, appearing before Belfast Crown Court, was told he will serve a minimum of 20 years in prison.
Finlay captured on CCTV approaching, and subsequently leaving, Alyson Nelson’s home.
Detective Inspector Michelle Griffin said:
“Alyson Nelson, who was 64 years old, was attacked by William Finlay on Saturday 16 April 2022. She was stabbed multiple times, in her own home in the village of Whitehead. A place she should have been safe.
“Officers responded, along with other emergency service colleagues. Sadly, despite valiant efforts to save Ms Nelson, she was pronounced dead at the scene.
“Alyson was a much-loved mother, grandmother and sister. The entire family has suffered a huge loss, made all the more agonising by the cruel way in which her life was taken. Friends and local people, too, have lost a loved one.”
Detective Inspector Griffin continued:
“William Finlay and Alyson had previously been in a relationship, which had ended over a year before the fatal stabbing took place. As a result, he is the first person in Northern Ireland to be convicted and sentenced for murder aggravated by domestic abuse under new legislation.”
She added: “I know that Alyson’s loving family are heartbroken, and my thoughts, indeed the thoughts of our entire team, remain with them today.”
Finlay captured on CCTV approaching, and subsequently leaving, Alyson Nelson’s home.