A man in court accused of murdering his girlfriend after their relationship broke down

A man is in court accused of murdering his girlfriend after their relationship broke down.

Stephen Sexton is alleged to have killed Joanna Derkacz, 37, in the early hours of December 28, 2023 at their home in Nevinson Way, Waterlooville.

Prosecutors told the jury at Portsmouth Crown Court that Sexton displayed jealous, controlling and coercive behaviour during what they described as a toxic and abusive relationship. The jury heard that Joanna’s death came after their relationship of three years broke down and they began sleeping in separate rooms.

The court heard that Sexton had been with a friend at his house, but returned home at 12.20am. It is the prosecution's case that he then raped and killed her.

Joanna’s body was found by her sister Arleta at the house in Waterlooville later that same morning after becoming concerned she had not been answering calls.

Sexton, now of Cherrywood Gardens, in Totton, denies the charges - the trial continues.