THE SENIOR detective who led the investigation that brought killer Paul Irwin to justice today described the killer as "a cowardly human being."

Detective Superintendent Matt Scott, whose team uncovered the truth about 50-year-old Irwin's controlling and violent behaviour towards his partner Tiffany Render, was speaking outside Carlisle Crown Court.

A jury had just unanimously found Irwin guilty of murdering 34-year-old Miss Render, described in court as a "vulnerable"  woman who became trapped in an unhealthy relationship with Irwin. 

“This was a horrific crime and Irwin subjected Tiffany Render to an aggressive, violent, and controlling relationship," said Det Supt Scott.

"As we have all seen in court, he has shown no emotion, and no remorse. He is clearly a cowardly and horrendous human being who deserves to be behind bars."

The officer thanked the jury for dealing with the case, at times distressing in its detail - so much so that the judge, Mrs Justice Foster, told jurors that can now be excused from ever sitting on a jury again should they wish.

Det Supt Scott said: “After hearing all the evidence gathered against Irwin by officers, the jury found him responsible for Tiffany’s death.

“I would like to thank the members of the jury – ordinary members of the public- who have sat and listened carefully to some shocking evidence in this case and returned a guilty verdict.

"It shows, I hope, to all victims of domestic abuse who are out there that we are on their side and we'll do everything we can to prosecute those who commit these offences.

“I would also like to thank our colleagues within the Crown Prosecution Service and prosecuting council Iain Simkin KC for the manner in which the case has been prepared and delivered at trial.

“And I must thank the dedicated team of police officers and staff who have worked tirelessly on this investigation. They have shown great professionalism throughout."

Det Supt Scott continued: “I would finally like to thank and pay tribute to Tiffany’s family. They have been dignified throughout the course of the investigation.

"They have been beyond amazing throughout this entire trial. They have been going through the worst thing that could happen to them but they have conducted themselves with dignity throughout it all.

"I'd also like to thank them for the work they have done with the police, the CPS, and counsel."

“I hope the conviction provides them with some comfort that her killer has been brought to justice and will spend a significant amount of time behind bars."

Addressing other domestic abuse victims who may need help, the officer added: "If you are a victim of domestic abuse, please tell us about it.

"We will take it seriously and we will do something about it; we'll be positive and we'll support you. There are many services out there which work with the police and which work independently the police who will support you through the entire journey.

"We will do everything we can to break that cycle [of abuse] and keep you safe."