Stephanie Hodgkinson's family pay tribute after murder

As previously reported, Stephanie Hodgkinson, 34, was murdered by her boyfriend Alberto Fioletti, who was sentenced today (Monday, January, 15) to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 15 years.

After the sentencing, Stephanie's family paid tribute to her: "As a family, being without Stephanie, is unimaginable and unbearable. Our hearts are forever broken and life will never be the same without her. We will never get over this.

"We cling to the fact that we are so blessed to have had Stephanie in our lives, and to know that she will be with us always, in spirit and in our hearts.

"Stephanie, the most beautiful and remarkable young woman, so full of life and so full of love. She intended to make every second count. Stephanie lit up a room with her very presence and touched the hearts of everyone she met.

READ MORE: Man jailed for murdering girlfriend in Bournemouth

"She had her whole life in front of her and had such plans for herself and her beautiful boys. In the short time they had together, their lives were full of love and laughter, fun and adventure.

"Together they created such wonderful memories, and her boys will always feel and know how much their mummy loves them. In their future lives, we will continue to follow in her footsteps to fulfil all her plans and wishes for her boys.

"In choosing to plead not guilty to murder the defendant has prolonged our agony and put us all through anguish, heartache and to have to face and hear the unimaginable.

"The sentencing today only brings us consolation that the defendant cannot do this to another woman, but it must serve as a lesson to him and others who think that they can take a women’s life from her, because justice will prevail.

"We would like to thank Dorset Police and the Crown Prosecution Service for all their detailed and hard work. We would also like to thank Holly Tree Lodge and their staff, and also thank Victim Support for their ongoing support."