Jail for woman who killed partner in argument just days before Christmas

An Ilkeston woman has been jailed for seven and a half years after stabbing her partner during an argument just days before Christmas.

Wayne Sibley died after being stabbed by Regan Martin at his home in Stamford Street, Ilkeston, on Tuesday 19th December 2023.

Mr Sibley’s femoral artery was cut by the single stab wound and the 45-year-old died at the scene.

Regan Martin was arrested a short time later and, while she admitted stabbing Mr Sibley during an argument between the pair, she told officers she did not mean to kill him.

However, Martin was subsequently charged with the murder of Mr Sibley. The 48-year-old pleaded not guilty to his murder and a trial at Derby Crown Court began last month. A Jury found Martin not guilty of murder however the prosecution accepted a previous plea of manslaughter in relation to Mr Sibley’s death.  

On 12th July 2024, at the same court, she was sentenced to seven and half years imprisonment.

DI Maria Pleace, who led the investigation into Mr Sibley’s death, said: “Regan Martin led a chaotic lifestyle – being both a heavy drug taker and a user of alcohol.

“Martin had taken both heroin and drunk strong cider on the day of Wayne’s death and grabbed a knife during an argument between the pair.

“The stab wound to Wayne’s left leg cut through his femoral artery and, despite the best efforts of officers and paramedics, he died at the scene.

“Regan Martin had total disregard for the safety of Wayne Sibley by brandishing a knife and then stabbing him, which led to a truly tragic outcome.

“She will have to live with the knowledge that she killed Wayne – and that she bears the responsibility for his death for the rest of her life.

“My thoughts are with Mr Sibley’s family and friends, who lost their loved one in such unnecessary circumstances, and I want to thank them for their dignity during the investigation and subsequent court proceedings.”