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Russian Pianist's Husband Gets 17 Years In Jail For Her Killing


A "controlling" and "jealous" husband faces at least 17 years in prison for killing his wife Natalia Strelchenko, a world-famous Russian concert pianist.

John Martin, 48, was found guilty last week of beating and strangling Strelchenko, 38, on their two-year wedding anniversary at their home in Manchester, England.

Justice Laura Cox castigated the defendant for his "brutal, sustained and unprovoked attack" in sentencing him on March 21.

Martin, a double-bass player who served a prison term in Norway for previous assaults on Strelchenko, must serve a minimum term of 17 years and 164 days.

The prosecution claimed Martin was jealous of his wife's career taking off while his did not, and said he felt like her "servant" because she made money while he did the household chores.

When police arrived at their home on August 30 last year following Martin's frenzied attack on his wife, Martin repeatedly said, "kill me, kill me please, I have nothing to live for, I do not deserve to live," which was caught on an officer's bodycam.

The pianist was found with 71 injuries, including 45 separate marks to her head and neck.

Based on reporting by AP and The Telegraph

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