Published: Friday, 5th February, 2010 3:52pm

Smith: Benchmark for Atrocity

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Double killer Thomas Bennie Smith set 'a benchmark for atrocity' when he murdered Diane and Holly Fallon.

In a strongly-worded statement, Lord Turnbull commented: "Even in these courts, where we hear and see the worst of humanity and where acts of depravity and atrocity are regularly described, your conduct stands out as exceptional."

The judge went on: "In perpetrating these crimes you have set a benchmark for atrocity below which it is difficult to imagine any other human being sinking."

Earlier in his statement, Lord Turnbull reflected society's horror at the brutality of his crimes when he told Smith: "Ordinary language cannot adequately describe the level of violence which you engaged in....

"What you did to each of your victims is to my mind more properly described as sadistic torture."

Smith was sentenced to 32 years for the brutal murders of the Cronberry mother and daughter in March 2009.

FOR MORE ON THIS HORRIFIC CASE, SEE THE CHRONICLE FEBRUARY 10 EDITION.