Shinfield man jailed after stabbing his wife 59 times
A MAN who stabbed his wife 59 times has been jailed for at least 16 years and eight months.
Laurens Brand, 47, admitted murdering his wife in their home in Shinfield in the early hours of Boxing Day last year.
Police described the attack as ‘brutal’ and said that callous Brand had waited until it was too late to save Angela Mittal before calling 999. Instead of asking for an ambulance, Brand asked for the police.
He had also attempted to clean up his home.
The couple had moved into Parker Close in Shinfield last year and had been featured in publicity material for the new development.
The attack took place before Brand called the police around 5.40am on December 26, 2018. Angela had suffered 59 stab wounds to her neck and chest, she died at the scene.
Brand was arrested and then charged with the murder of Angela on December 28.
He pleaded guilty on March 22 and he was of sentenced at Reading Crown Court on Friday, May 10.
In a statement, Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Mike Roddy, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said: “This was a brutal assault carried out by Laurens Brand on his wife, Angela Mittal during which she suffered 59 separate injuries.
“Brand subjected Angela to this vicious attack in her own home, a place where she should have felt safe and secure.
“Instead of helping Angela, he tried to clean up before calling 999. When he did call, he didn't ask for an ambulance, he asked directly for the police in the knowledge it was too late for Angela.
“This has been an extremely difficult time for Angela’s family and I would like to thank them for their help and support throughout this investigation
“I'd also like to commend them on the courage they have shown, especially today when having to explain what the loss of Angela means to
them. “It is never easy time lose anyone, but in such violent circumstances, in her own home, it is unimaginable.” Angela’s family released a tribute to her, saying that she was a popular woman who had a ‘sweet and enduring wit’.
The tribute reads:
“Her life was tragically cut short due to a senseless crime.
“Angela truly lived life to the fullest through the simple pleasures; chatting with friends, spending time and enriching the life of her family and always seeing the brighter side to life.
“She had this beautiful talent to bring people together from all walks of life and touch them in a deep and positive way.
“Angela was known for her creativity, kindness and big heart.
“The friendships, generosity and enthusiasm she displayed throughout her life is an inspiration to us all.
“Angela will be missed beyond words, her love, warmth and beauty will remain alive in her family and friends hearts.
“Rest in peace.”