Zara Aleena's family expressed their disappointment after her killer, Jordan McSweeney, had his minimum sentence reduced from 38 to 33 years following an appeal.
McSweeney, who was on licence from prison when he murdered the 35-year-old law graduate in Ilford, inflicted 46 separate injuries during the attack. The family is frustrated that the appeal judges overruled the original judge's decision, which took into account the brutal and sexual nature of the crime.
McSweeney's barrister argued that the murder was not premeditated and that the sentencing judge had incorrectly considered aggravating factors.
Zara Aleena's aunt criticized the decision, stating that it undervalues women's suffering and sends the wrong message. She also condemned McSweeney's lack of respect for the legal system, as he had refused to attend his sentencing hearing.