A cowardly man who murdered and disposed of his ex-partner’s body following a row over their child has been jailed for life. Darren Osment was found guilty of the murder of Claire Holland, 11 years after she was last seen at a Bristol city centre pub on June 6, 2012.
The Bristol mum’s disappearance sparked an extensive missing persons search and later a murder probe, which saw Osment snared by an undercover police officer after he called 999 in July 2019 to confess to her murder. Claire’s family spoke in an emotional courtroom at Bristol Crown Court on Wednesday afternoon (December 20) about the pain and loss they have felt over the last 11 years.
One family member told the court how Claire, aged 32 at the time she went missing, had reconnected with her father via text message and her family was looking forward to her spending time with them. Claire had sought treatment for her alcoholism and was taking steps to rebuild her life with a new flat, the court heard.
Ms Holland’s half-sister Michaela Holland told the court the family had finally achieved justice for her. Darren, I want you to know that you have destroyed our family, she told Osment, who has repeatedly refused to admit where he hid Claire’s body.
We have so many questions. What were her last words, did she see it coming? If you have got it in your heart, please tell us where she is. We just want to lay her to rest.
Ms Holland’s daughter, Rosie Holland-Hall, told Osment: You will never understand the harm you have caused to me…I will never forgive you for what you have done and the damage you have caused. During these statements from the family and prosecution, an emotionless Osment had his arms crossed and was laid back in his seat.
Prosecutor Andrew Langdon highlighted several aggravating features in the case, including Claire’s vulnerability and a history of domestic violence towards her. Osment had thrown her down the stairs following the birth of their child.
It was noted that Claire’s body has never been recovered and only Osment knows what happened. An undercover police officer, ‘Paddy O’Hara,’ played a crucial role in bringing Osment to justice. He befriended Osment and elicited several confessions, where Osment described his actions as horrific and irreversible.
Osment’s defense barrister argued that he had concerns for his children and parents if he were to be jailed. The judge, Mrs. Justice Cutts, commended the work of Avon and Somerset Police and urged Osment to disclose the location of Claire’s body for the sake of her family and their son.
Darren Osment, aged 41, was sentenced to life in prison, with a minimum term of 20 years. As he left the court, Osment held up a note against the dock window panel, which read innocent, causing dismay in the public gallery.
The sentencing brought some closure to Claire’s family, who have longed for answers and the opportunity to lay her to rest. It is hoped that Osment will eventually reveal the location of Claire’s body, allowing her loved ones to find the peace they so desperately need.
