The murder of British-Pakistani girl Sarah Sharif that shook the United Kingdom came to a close on Tuesday as a court sentenced the prime suspects, her father and stepmother, to life imprisonment. Urfan Sharif must serve a minimum of 40 years while Beinash Batool would serve a minimum term of 33 years.

Faisal Malik, Sara’s uncle, received a jail sentence of 16 years for causing or allowing the death of a child, BBC News reported.

Sara Sharif was just 10 when she was found dead in her bed in August 2023, her body covered in bites and bruises, with broken bones and burn marks.

A post-mortem revealed she had more than 100 injuries, and at least 25 broken bones.

In the proceedings, Justice John Cavanagh reflected on the spirit of Sara, describing her as “a very courageous little girl” who loved to sing and dance.

The case of Sara Sharif, a young girl whose tragic death has spotlighted systemic failures, unfolded over several months:

• June 2022: Sara’s school notices a bruise under her left eye.

• March 2023: The school observes a bruise on her chin and a dark mark on her right eye, prompting them to contact Children’s Single Point of Access. This results in a recommendation for a referral to social services.

• March 16, 2023: Social services decides to take no further action regarding Sara’s situation.

• April 2023: Sara’s father informs the school that she will be withdrawn for homeschooling.

• August 8, 2023: Sara tragically dies in her family home in Woking, Surrey.

• August 9, 2023: Following Sara’s death, her father Urfan Sharif, stepmother Beinash Batool, and uncle Faisal Malik leave Heathrow Airport for Islamabad, Pakistan, accompanied by Sara’s five siblings.

• August 10, 2023: Sara’s body is discovered at her home, revealing “multiple and extensive injuries” through a post-mortem examination. Surrey Police begin coordinating with international partners.

• August 15, 2023: Pakistani police confirm they received a request from Interpol to locate the family members.

• August 16, 2023: Authorities initiate a search for Sharif, Batool, and Malik.

• September 13, 2023: All three are arrested on suspicion of murder upon returning to the UK from Pakistan at Gatwick Airport.

• September 15, 2023: The trio is charged with Sara’s murder and further accused of causing or allowing the death of a child.

• October 7, 2024: The trial for Sara’s father, stepmother, and uncle begins, with all three denying the charges.

• December 11, 2024: The jury finds Sara’s father and stepmother guilty of murder, while her uncle is acquitted of murder but found guilty of causing or allowing the death of a child.

• December 17, 2024: Sharif and Batool are sentenced to life in prison with minimum terms of 40 and 33 years, respectively. Malik receives a 16-year sentence.