A man has been found guilty by a Scottish jury for the murder of his Canadian girlfriend on the remote Shetland Islands. The convicted individual, Aren Pearson, has been sentenced to a minimum of 25 years in prison by Judge Paul Arthurson. The victim, 24-year-old Claire Leveque, originally from Westlock, Alta., was living and working in Edmonton prior to the tragic incident.
Apart from the murder charge, Pearson faced several other accusations, which were later dropped, including an attempt to obstruct justice. In the United Kingdom, a murder conviction carries a mandatory life sentence, with Pearson required to serve a minimum of 25 years before being eligible for parole.
Following the sentencing, Leveque’s cousin, Hope Ingram, expressed gratitude towards the investigative team, the Crown, the judge, and the jury for their dedication in the case. Ingram, who considered herself more like a sister to Leveque, emphasized the importance of seeking justice for her cousin and supporting other victims of domestic violence to come forward.
The court proceedings revealed that the couple, who originally met in Edmonton, resided in Sandness, a small community within the Shetland Islands. Pearson, a Canadian citizen, disclosed during the trial that he had applied for and received his U.K. citizenship shortly after Leveque’s tragic death.
Key evidence in the case included a recorded emergency call made by Pearson, where he confessed to killing Leveque by stabbing her multiple times. The severity of the crime was further highlighted by Pearson’s mother, who witnessed the aftermath of the brutal attack and attempted to intervene.
During the trial, jurors heard disturbing details, including a conversation between the couple where Leveque expressed fear that Pearson would eventually kill her. Pearson, in his defense, claimed that Leveque had inflicted self-harm during a heated argument, denying allegations of strangulation or drowning.
The sentencing judge, Arthurson, described the prosecution’s evidence as compelling and denounced Pearson’s account as deceitful and malicious. Pearson has a limited timeframe to appeal the verdict or sentence, while the Crown also retains the option to challenge the leniency of the sentence.
Scotland Police Det. Insp. Richard Baird condemned Pearson’s actions as cowardly and controlling, emphasizing the horrifying nature of the crime. The case has sparked discussions about intimate partner violence, with advocates urging individuals affected by such issues to seek support and resources.
As the legal proceedings come to a close, friends and family of Leveque continue to grapple with the loss, remembering her vibrant personality and adventurous spirit. Leveque’s remains have been cremated and will be laid to rest alongside her mother in Alberta, as loved ones aim to honor her memory by cherishing life and advocating against violence in relationships.
