A man has been sentenced to at least 21 years behind bars for murdering his girlfriend — despite being on bail with strict conditions not to contact her.
Ryan Evans Kills Girlfriend Holly Sanchez
Ryan Evans, 31, from Crawley, West Sussex, was found guilty of killing Holly Sanchez in May 2023 at a bungalow in the town. The chilling sentence was handed down last Friday at Hove Crown Court.
Evans was convicted in July after a harrowing trial revealed he had been in a coercive, abusive relationship with Holly. During their brief time together, he inflicted repeated physical violence, financial control, and emotional abuse.
Judge Condemns Evans’ Abuse
Passing sentence, Judge Christine Henson KC said, “It’s clear over the short relationship that she had with you that you controlled her emotionally, financially, and you physically abused her.”
Evans admitted to a friend he “lost it” after wrongly believing Holly was involved with another man.
Family Pleads for Domestic Violence Awareness
Holly’s mother Kelly gave emotional testimony: “The thought of what Holly went through at the hands of Ryan haunts me every day. I cannot understand how someone could hurt my baby girl so badly.”
Despite being on bail for prior domestic abuse offences against Holly, Evans continued to harass her, breaching bail conditions forbidding contact.
Holly’s family issued a statement through Sussex Police calling for greater awareness of domestic violence. They said, “Holly was a daughter, granddaughter, aunt, sister, and most importantly a mother. She was taken from us by a cruel and evil monster.”
“We hope Holly’s case raises awareness of how quickly domestic violence can have fatal consequences and that it encourages other victims to seek help.”
Police Vow to Crack Down on Domestic Abuse
Detective Chief Inspector Kelly Lewis, Sussex Police’s domestic abuse lead, described Evans’ behaviour as brutal and manipulative. She reaffirmed the force’s commitment to swiftly protecting victims and pursuing offenders.
The original sentence was 23 years but was reduced to 21 years to reflect time Evans spent on remand. He will remain on licence for life after serving his minimum term.
Outside court, family friend Toby Herrod recalled hearing Holly’s voice shortly before her death. He described her loss as “very sad” and urged others to remember her fondly.
