The man who murdered three young girls in Southport last summer has now plead guilty to the crime.
Axel Rudakubana changed his plea on Monday morning in a shock twist at Liverpool Crown Court. Earlier prosecution and defence counsels had been preparing for a trial expected to last up to six weeks.
He plead guilty to all charges. They are:
– The murders of Elsie Dot Stancombe, Bebe King and Alice da Silva Aguiar
– Eight counts of attempted murder of eight other children who cannot be named
– The attempted murder of adults Leanne Lucas and John Hayes
– Production of a biological toxin
– Possession of information likely to be used by someone preparing to commit an act of terror.
The shock change in the case played out over ten minutes at Liverpool Crown Court. Justice Goose said Rudakubana will now face sentencing on Thursday (Jan 23rd).
Justice Goose: “Axel Rudakubana you can hear me I know. You have now pleaded guilty to this indictment to each of the charges upon it. The next stage is for sentence. That will take place on Thursday. In the meantime you must keep in touch with your barristers, solicitors and the intermediary in order for you to receive any advice or assistance.
“You will understand it’s inevitable that a life sentence will be imposed upon you. In the meantime, you go with the officers and be produced at that hearing at 11 o’clock on Thursday.
Rudakubana’s defence counsel noted they may offer “a considerable” information as to his mental health background prior to sentencing.