Susanna Freymark
Rayne Aylward was sentenced to 18 years imprisionment for the murder of 17 year old Ned Gronow on June 25, 2022.
There were gasps from the packed public gallery of about 40 people at the Lismore Courthouse as the sentence was announced.
Thomas and Julie Gronow sat with with family and friends as Supreme Court Justice Helen Wilson said the sentence had a non-parole period of 12 years.
”May he rot in hell,” Ms Gronow shouted.
Outside the courthouse, Ms Gronow spoke to the press.
“As parents, as you kiss your child good night, remember the Australian justice system values their life as only 18 years in prison — and possibly just 12 years with parole.
“Rayne Aylward and his sister (who shall not be named) may you fall asleep each evening reliving the horror of your part in the murder of an innocent child.
”A murder committed in cold blood.”
The family were distraught as they process the sentence handed down in the court today, Tuesday, July 30.
Yesterday, Monday, July 29, the Gronows described the impact the death of their son had on their lives. Read that here.
and then