Samantha Varley, 44, was found with horrific injuries after a sustained attack by her abusive partner

A violent and controlling man has been sentenced to at least 24 years in prison for the murder of his girlfriend in Leeds.

Samantha Varley, 44, was discovered dead in her flat in Harehills, Leeds, in February 2024. She had suffered severe head, chest, and leg injuries, as well as bite marks. Her partner, Warren Spence, 55, was found guilty of carrying out the attack following a two-and-a-half-week trial at Leeds Crown Court.

Spence had a history of domestic violence offences dating back to 2007, with previous convictions for assaulting, threatening, and harassing women. Despite denying any involvement in Varley’s death, he was convicted on 6 March and sentenced shortly after.

Miss Varley had sought help from domestic abuse services just one week before she was killed. During the trial, police bodycam footage was played, showing her expressing fear for her life and stating that she was terrified of Spence.

The court heard that Spence launched a brutal and sustained assault, leaving his victim with multiple injuries. He then abandoned her in the flat, where she remained undiscovered for several days.

During sentencing, Mr Justice Cotter described Spence as a violent, manipulative, and controlling man who had been a danger to women for many years.

Miss Varley’s family paid tribute to her, describing her as caring, funny, and loyal. They said the circumstances of her death had left them devastated, adding that they would always remember her for the loving and kind person she was.

West Yorkshire Police has referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) due to prior contact with Miss Varley before her death. The IOPC confirmed that it is finalising its investigation and will release findings in due course.

Senior Investigating Officer Det Ch Insp James Entwistle said Spence had given no explanation for his actions, leaving Varley’s family in unimaginable pain. He also expressed gratitude to those who came forward with evidence to support the case.

Becky Joyce, from the charity Homeless Street Angels, which had supported Miss Varley, described her as a warm and selfless person who always put others before herself. She said the community had suffered a great loss and that Miss Varley’s absence would be deeply felt.

As Spence begins his life sentence, Varley’s family and friends continue to mourn the loss of a woman who sought help but did not receive the protection she needed.