A Newcastle jury has today found Ross Merrick guilty of manslaugher over the 2013 death of his girlfriend Marika Ninness.
During the four week trial, prosecutors argued Merrick was controlling and would get angry and lash out, but he was today acquitted of Ms Ninness’s murder and instead found guilty of manslaughter.
Ms Ninness was hit in the face in a Maitland carpark, leading to a fracture in her head which ultimately led to her death two weeks later.
The Ninness family spoke outside court today and said they’re satisfied with the verdict.
Merrick will be sentenced on May 9.
BREAKING: Ross Merrick found not guilty of murder, found guilty of manslaughter @nbnnews
— Tyson Cottrill (@TysonCottrill) March 28, 2016
Merrick did not apply for bail. Will be sentenced on 9th May @nbnnews
— Tyson Cottrill (@TysonCottrill) March 28, 2016
Charnie Braz sister of Marika Ninness spoke outside court. Says family satisfied with manslaughter verdict @nbnnews pic.twitter.com/vF42L5GUQG
— Tyson Cottrill (@TysonCottrill) March 29, 2016
