A man convicted of killing a nine-year-old girl in Boston has been sentenced to a minimum term of 25 years.
Deividas Skebas stood trial at Lincoln Crown Court earlier this month after he stabbed Lilia Valutyte outside of her mother’s shop on the 28 July 2022.
She had been playing outside with her hula hoop when the attack took place, and she sadly passed away shortly after 7pm later that day.
The 26-year-old, formerly of Thorold Street, Boston, will serve 21 years and 156 days, accoutning for the time he spent on remand.
Skebas was initially considered unfit to stand due to mental health issues and was instead the subject of a trial of facts in 2023.
It was judged that Skebas was responsible for stabbing Lilia – however, a hearing of this type is not considered a criminal prosecution.
Skebas was given an indefinite hospital order which saw him detained at Rampton Hospital until such a time he was deemed fit to stand trial.
On Thursday, 5 February, Skebas was convicted of murder, nearly three-and-a-half years after Lilia was killed.
Prosecutors successfully argued that at the time of the stabbing Skebas knew what he was doing and took actions to avoid detection.
Mum Lina and stepfather Aurelijus said: “This decision will not change our lives.
“Nothing will bring our child back, the pain will not disappear, and the tears shed will not wash it away.
“From the bottom of our hearts, we thank those who were not afraid to stand by us and support our family during the hardest time.
“No matter how strong we may appear, there are moments when all we need is to know that we are needed and not alone.
“Your presence meant more than words can express.”
Detective Chief Inspector Jennifer Lovatt previously said: “Lilia Valutyte was a young girl who had her whole life ahead of her. She was dearly loved by her family and friends and did not deserve to lose her life.
“Those who knew her will forever mourn the loss of her future and the impact of her tragic death can still be felt in our community today.
“On July 28, 2022, Deividas Skebas performed an unspeakable act.
“Today is about justice for Lilia, her family and those who knew her.
“I would like to pay tribute to Lilia’s family and friends who have shown remarkable strength, dignity, patience and understanding throughout this investigation.
“The family have asked for the media to respect their privacy at this time.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the local community in Boston for all of their help and support throughout this investigation.
“There was clear evidence that after Skebas killed Lilia, he made preparations to leave the country. I would like to thank those who provided the information following the media appeal that led to him being arrested before he could leave.”
“We will never forget Lilia and she will never be far from our thoughts.”