A Christchurch butcher has been found guilty of murdering a Christchurch sex worker.
Twenty-two-year-old Renee Duckmanton's body was found half naked and burnt on the side of the road near the Rakaia River South of Christchurch in May 2016.
Thirty-three-year-old Sainey Marong was found guilty of murder by a jury in the Christchurch High Court after a two week trial.
The Crown alleged a sheep's tongue, a lighter as well as a beanie with Marong's DNA on it were found at the scene where Duckmanton's body was found.
Marong allegedly picked up Duckmanton from Christchurch's Red Light district for a job worth $300.
Defence lawyer Jonathan Krebs has told the jury what happened is best understood "through the lense of mental imbalance".
There were tears and cheering from the public gallery as the verdict was read out.
Detective inspector Darryl Sweeney, speaking on behalf of Duckmanton's family, said the result will not provide closure but it's important that they have answers and the offender has been held to account.
"Renee's family would like everyone to remember her as a much-loved daughter, sister, cousin, granddaughter and auntie - she will always remain a much loved part of the family.
"Renee's family would also like to thank Victim Support (in particular Deb), the Crown prosecution team and police, and members of the public who assisted with evidence in the case - notably those who were first on the scene and found Renee."
Det insp Sweeney said it was "a harrowing case for everyone involved".
Newshub.
