Family campaigns for new law on murderers' disclosures

Sinead Corrigan has lived with the pain of not knowing her sister's fate for over 12 years. Her sister, Charlotte Murray, went missing in 2012, and her body has never been found. In 2019, Charlotte's former partner, Johnny Miller, was convicted of her murder. He is serving a life sentence. Charlotte's family is now campaigning for a new law that could change how cases like hers are handled. The law, called "Charlotte's Law," aims to encourage murderers to reveal the locations of their victims' bodies. It could offer reduced sentences for those who cooperate and longer ones for those who do not. Charlotte was last seen in October 2012, and her family has searched tirelessly for her remains. Sinead shared that Charlotte was a strong and kind person, and the family's struggle has affected all 11 siblings deeply. They feel unable to move forward without a grave to visit. The inspiration for Charlotte's Law came from a similar law in England and Wales, which was created after Helen McCourt disappeared in 1988. This law, known as "Helen's Law," ensures the parole board considers whether an offender has disclosed evidence about their victim when making release decisions. Justice Minister Naomi Long stated that Charlotte's Law aims to help bereaved families in Northern Ireland. She explained how the law would incentivize offenders to provide information about victims, even while in prison. Charlotte's family is collaborating with others who have faced similar losses, like the Dorrian family, who are seeking justice for their missing relative. Sinead expressed hope that Charlotte's Law will spare other families from their ordeal. The proposed legislation will be included in the Sentencing Bill and is expected to undergo further discussions next year before becoming law.