Tyrone Thompson, 25, has been sentenced to 22 years and six months in prison for the brutal murder of his ex-girlfriend, Mackenzie Anderson, who was just 21 years old at the time of her death. The sentencing took place on May 2, 2025, in the Newcastle Supreme Court, following Thompson's guilty plea last month for the horrific attack that occurred on March 25, 2022.
In a shocking two-minute assault, Thompson stabbed Anderson 78 times with two kitchen knives in her Mayfield apartment. The attack was witnessed by a friend who had gone to check on Anderson after hearing her screams. This friend looked through a gap in the door and saw Thompson standing over Anderson as he repeatedly stabbed her, leaving her with severe injuries.
Thompson, who was on parole for previous domestic violence offenses against Anderson, expressed remorse in a letter submitted to the court. He claimed he loved her and did not intend to hurt her, suggesting that they struggled over a knife during an argument, and he lost control after cutting his own hand. However, prosecutors argued that the letter contained elements of victim-blaming, indicating a lack of true insight into his actions.
During the sentencing, Justice Richard Weinstein described Anderson's death as a "tragedy for her friends and family" and acknowledged the broader impact on the community. He recognized Thompson's significant criminal history, which included intimidation and property damage, but applied a 10 percent discount to the sentence due to Thompson's young age, violent upbringing, and mental health issues.
Thompson was diagnosed with complex post-traumatic stress disorder and a severe personality disorder, yet the court found he was not psychotic at the time of the murder. His lawyer argued that these mental health issues should be considered when assessing his moral culpability.
Anderson’s mother, Tabitha Acret, was visibly distraught following the sentencing, stating that the outcome felt like an insult to women everywhere. "While this may be thought of as a good outcome by the courts, we are disgusted that this sentence is what they think the value of my daughter's life was worth," she said. Acret has since called for an appeal against the sentence, emphasizing the need for reform in how domestic violence cases are handled in the justice system.
She expressed her outrage outside the courthouse, where she collapsed after the proceedings, stating, "No punishment ever feels like justice. In Australia, sentences are often ridiculous. We far too frequently deliver light sentences." Acret vowed to continue advocating for victims of domestic violence, highlighting the need for systemic change to protect women and children at risk.
Thompson’s actions were described as “senseless” and “brutal”, with the court hearing that he had previously threatened Anderson and had a history of violence against her. Just two weeks before the murder, he was released from prison after serving time for domestic violence offenses against her.
On the night of the murder, Thompson had been messaging people to find Anderson’s whereabouts, breaching an apprehended violence order. Witnesses reported hearing him yell, "F**k ya! Stab me, stab me, stab me!" as he attacked her. Despite his claims of love and remorse, the court heard that Anderson had lived in fear of Thompson, who had threatened to kill her in the past.
Justice Weinstein took into account Thompson's guilty plea, ultimately sentencing him to 22 years and six months, with a non-parole period of 15 years and six months. Thompson will be eligible for parole in 2038, but Acret and many advocates for victims of domestic violence are calling for a review of the sentence, insisting it does not reflect the severity of the crime.
In her passionate address to the media, Acret stated, "Mackenzie’s legacy will be one of action, of justice, and of hope, and I call for this sentence to be appealed." Her words resonate with many who are advocating for stronger protections against domestic violence and more severe penalties for offenders.
As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragic case, the conversation surrounding domestic violence and its victims continues to gain urgency. Advocates are pushing for legislative changes to ensure that the justice system adequately addresses the extreme violence faced by women like Mackenzie Anderson.
The case has sparked widespread discussions about the treatment of domestic violence cases in Australia and the need for a more robust response from law enforcement and the judicial system. Many are calling for reforms that would prioritize the safety of victims and hold perpetrators accountable for their actions.
As the legal proceedings surrounding this case conclude, the impact of Mackenzie Anderson's death will likely be felt for years to come. Her family and friends remember her not just as a victim, but as a vibrant young woman with dreams and aspirations. In the wake of this tragedy, the call for justice and change becomes louder, as communities rally together to advocate for those who can no longer speak for themselves.
