Orange County man gets 26-years-to-life sentence for murder of estranged girlfriend
Briefly

Laura Sardinha, 25, was fatally stabbed by Craig J. Charron after she changed the locks on her apartment to protect herself from him. Charron had a history of violence, including an incident where he perforated her eardrum. A jury convicted Charron of first-degree murder, leading to a sentencing of 26 years to life in prison by Judge Michael Cassidy. At the sentencing, family members expressed their anguish over the loss of Laura, who had aimed to help women escape abusive relationships. Charron's prior military service was noted, but the family opposed any leniency.
Laura Sardinha was a 25-year-old victim pursuing an online psychology degree. She hoped to counsel women in abusive relationships and sought to escape her relationship with Charron.
Judge Michael Cassidy called Charron's act a "senseless and brutal" crime. He sentenced Charron to the maximum allowed for first-degree murder after Laura's death.
Marie Sardinha expressed her anguish, saying, "All Laura wanted was to be free of the abuse and the torment." She urged the judge that Charron should never be released.
Shawn Sardinha conveyed the depth of his grief by stating, "I now give updates of my life to a blue vase," reflecting his daily struggle following his sister's death.
Read at Los Angeles Times
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