The foster father of slain schoolgirl Tiahleigh Palmer has been sentenced to life in prison for her murder.
Rick Thorburn shed tears in the dock as he admitted killing the 12-year-old Logan schoolgirl in 2015, after his son Trent confessed to having sex with her and had worries she was pregnant, reports 9 news.
The 57-year-old also pleaded guilty to interfering with her corpse, attempting to pervert the course of justice and two counts of perjury.
He will have to serve 20 years before being eligible for parole in 2036.
Tiahleigh’s biological mother Cindy Palmer was present for the sentencing.
Outside court following the sentencing Ms Palmer said “no sentence will ever be enough”.
“Tiahleigh was a beautiful young girl who had her entire life to look forward to.
“Rick Thorburn took that away from me, from our family, and most importantly , from Tiahleigh.
I need time to process today’s sentencing and to grieve with my family in private.”
She thanked the community and police for their help and support.
Julene, Trent and the Thorburn’s eldest son, Joshua, have been sentenced for perjury after lying to police.
Trent Thorburn also pleaded guilty to having an incestuous relationship with his 12-year-old foster sister. He spent 16 months behind bars before being released on parole earlier this year.
Julene and Joshua were sentenced to six months and three months behind bars respectively.
Rick Thorburn’s sentencing today finally brings to an end the case that prompted an overhaul of Queensland’s child protection system.
Read more:
- Tiahleigh Palmer may not have been foster father’s only victim
- Foster family face charges over Tiahleigh Palmer’s murder
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