A 69-year-old Ballina man will serve up to 12 years and nine months in prison for the death of his partner, Lindy Lucena, in January 2023.

Robert Huber pleaded guilty to manslaughter after what the court heard was a violent and sustained assault while the pair were sleeping rough in Ballina.

He told police he struck Ms Lucena twice before falling asleep. When he woke hours later, she was dead.

Huber waited five hours before contacting authorities.

Judge’s Findings

The Lismore Supreme Court heard Ms Lucena did not die solely from her injuries. 

Instead, the judge found the assault, combined with her blocked arteries, caused an abnormal heartbeat that proved fatal.

The court ruled Huber showed regret but had failed to take genuine responsibility, and was not truly remorseful. 

He was sentenced to a non-parole period of nine years and will be eligible for release in 2034.

Daughter’s Anguish

Ms Lucena’s only daughter, Tahini Giormaina, delivered a powerful victim impact statement, calling Huber a “monster” and describing the assault as “pure evil manifested” and an “unbelievably savage rampage.”

The killing shocked the Ballina community and has since fuelled the “Wear it Purple” campaign for stronger efforts to prevent domestic violence.