Man sentenced 25 years for murder of Edenvale woman
Cockrell was well-known and loved in the Edenvale community.
Murder accused Eugene Bischoff received a 25-year prison sentence for the 2022 murder of Patricia Mary Banks Cockrell.
The Palmridge Magistrate’s Court handed down the sentence on September 10.
Bischoff (50) stood accused of murdering Cockrell after reportedly stabbing her multiple times with a knife.
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Edenvale SAPS communication officer Warrant Officer Jacob Mashile said police believe he committed the crime on January 1, 2022.
Her body was discovered on January 3 after a missing person docket was opened for her on January 2.
Previously, Mashile said Cockrell’s body was found at a bed and breakfast. He said her body was discovered after the SAPS received communication for assistance.
“On arrival, the police officers were shown a black dustbin. They opened it and saw a white foot with red painted nails and a body covered in a blanket.
“Emergency personnel were summoned and declared the victim dead as a result of multiple stab wounds.
Mashile said a case docket was registered and allocated to Detective Warrant Officer Geoff Debeer.
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“Debeer hunted the suspect down until he was arrested in Boksburg.”
His arrest came the same day Cockrell’s body was discovered.
Once Bischoff was in custody, he was taken to the Edenvale Police Station for processing.
Fondly known as ‘Trish’ among her friends and to some community members, Cockrell was well-known and loved in the Edenvale community.
At Bischoff’s first court appearance at the Germiston Magistrate’s Court, Edenvale community members stood outside with placards and signs supporting the victim’s family.
Acting station commander Lieutenant Colonel Lionel Chetty welcomed the conviction. He said the case and its sentencing serve as a warning to the public about GBVF and how the police and justice system will not tolerate either.
