Rhys Bennett sentenced to 24 years in jail for the murder of Jill Barclay in Dyce
At the High Court in Edinburgh on Wednesday, 24 May, Rhys Bennett pleaded guilty to the rape and murder of mother of two Jill Barclay in Dyce, and attempting to defeat the ends of justice.
He was sentenced to 24 years in jail.
Following the hearing, the officer who led the inquiry, Detective Superintendent Andrew Patrick said: “I hope this sentencing brings some comfort to Jill’s family and friends who have shown immense strength throughout this investigation. Our thoughts remain with them at this difficult time.
“Jill’s senseless and brutal murder had a significant impact on the local community in Dyce and throughout the North East. I would like to thank the public for their support throughout the investigation to bring Bennett to justice.
“On Saturday, 17 September, 2022, 47-year-old Jill was found dead near to Stoneywood Road and a murder investigation was launched. Our inquiries, including CCTV analysis, quickly led to 23-year-old Bennett being traced in Fife, where he was arrested and charged later that day. I believe that the evidence we were able to gather has led to Bennett’s guilty plea and, as a result, Jill’s family has been spared the further distress of a trial.
“This was a particularly harrowing investigation and it deeply affected everyone involved. I am glad that Bennett will now face the consequences of his depraved and wicked actions.
“Thankfully crimes like these are extremely rare in our communities. When such incidents take place we will use all resources necessary to carry out thorough, rigorous inquiries to ensure we track down those responsible to bring them to justice as swiftly as possible.”
Jill’s family has released the following statement:
"We would like to thank family, friends and the community for their comforting support following Jill’s tragic death as we have waited for justice.
“Jill was a deeply loved life partner, mother and daughter. She didn't deserve to die that day and especially in the unspeakable, brutal way it happened. This man has taken so much from us and changed our lives forever.
“Our family would like everyone, including the press, to respect our privacy at this difficult time so we can be left in peace to grieve.”
