Exclusive:Sister says she 'hates' alleged killer after thinking he was 'best' brother in law
Sister of woman allegedly murdered by boyfriend gives evidence in trial
The sister of a woman who was allegedly murdered by her boyfriend told a court she went from thinking he was the “best” brother-in-law to “hating” him.
Stephen Sexton, 38, is alleged to have killed Joanna Derkacz, 37, in the early hours of December 28, 2023, at their home in Nevinson Way, Waterlooville.
Sexton denies murder, rape and controlling or coercive behaviour after their relationship of three years ended while they still lived together.
Joanna’s sister Arleta Derkacz told jurors at Portsmouth Crown Court about how she initially had a “good relationship” with Sexton, who would help her partner with work at their house.
In her police interview Arleta had said she thought Sexton was a “good bloke” but giving evidence, she told jurors: “I will regret this for the rest of my life. Back then Jo loved him and believed in him.”
Asked by defence barrister Jodie Mittell KC if she had thought Sexton was the “best brother in law” during the early part of their relationship, Arleta said: “Absolutely.”
She added: “At that point I was looking at Mr Sexton as family.”
But around Christmas time of 2022 Arleta’s mood had changed towards Sexton who she said was “lying and making up stories (about her) like he did with my sister”.
Questioned by Ms Mittell about how she felt about this, Arleta said: “I hate him.”
She continued: “I could see my sister disappearing emotionally and physically and I hate him for what he did to her.”
Joanna’s older sister went on to say how Sexton was attempting to cause a division between them. Arleta said: “He was trying to push me away from my sister.”
Asked about Joanna taking drugs, Arleta said her sister would “take them occasionally with people she trusted” when at festivals or partying, but was unsure what type of drugs she would take as her sister “hid” it from her.
Arleta added: “She was a really hardworking person who would go to the gym and was saving to buy a house.”
(Proceeding)