As a crime reporter, Ive experienced numerous murder trials and seen dozens of violent, unrepentant criminals attempt to fool a jury into finding them not guilty.
But Edward Tenniswood is undoubtedly the most shameless, delusional and cruel defendant I have ever reported on.
The unemployed 52-year-old turned up every day at his two-week trial wearing a smart suit and shirt and appeared to be taking studious notes of the evidence.
Despite his apparent confident appearance, it was significant he avoided eye contact with anyone in the public gallery or the press area.
.........
To me, this was the first glimpse into the self-obsessed character of the former bookkeeper, who never showed any interest or care for the feelings of anyone but himself.
However, it was when Tenniswood gave evidence that his breathtaking lack of empathy really shone through......
I can completely understand why Indias parents stayed away from the trial as, even though I am used to hearing horrific details in court cases, it was hard to listen to Tenniswoods delusional ramblings and not feel angry and intensely sad that such a popular, kind and loving young womans life ended in his squalid house.
On a number of occasions, Tenniswood used the phrase No disrespect to India but... and I felt like shouting everything you have done since you met her has been completely and utterly disrespectful to her.