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Pathologist: Three Neck Fractures Before Death
9 Jul
Summary
- Woman suffered three neck fractures shortly before death.
- Injuries were likely caused by deliberate neck compression.
- Accused denies rape and murder charges in court.
A murder trial has revealed that Joanna Derkacz sustained three neck fractures from significant force shortly before she died. Pathologist Prof. Anthony Freemont stated these injuries likely resulted from deliberate compression to the neck, occurring almost simultaneously and all the way through three small neck bones.
The pathologist's findings, based on CT scans, indicated the fractures were unlikely to be accidental and would have caused pain and difficulty swallowing. The absence of clotting suggested Derkacz died soon after the injuries were inflicted. The victim was found deceased in her Waterlooville home in December 2023.
Stephen Sexton, 38, denies charges of raping and murdering the 37-year-old, as well as coercive behavior. Prosecutors allege Sexton caused her death. The jury heard that Sexton did not contact emergency services after her death, instead leaving the property twice to visit sex workers in Portsmouth.
