October 21, 2016
For Immediate Release
Contact: Tim Connolly 508-368-7236
Or 508-688-5565
WORCESTER – A Sutton man was sentenced to life in prison after he pleaded guilty today to the 2013 beating death of his former girlfriend, according to Worcester County District Attorney Joseph D. Early Jr.
Thomas Starefos, 49, of 30 Torrey Road, Sutton, pleaded guilty to second-degree murder. Superior Court Judge William Sullivan imposed the sentence, with the possibility of parole after 20 years.
Colleen Butler, 60, who lived at the same address, was killed on Nov. 30, 2013 after she and the defendant argued in the kitchen of that home, according to Assistant District Attorney Christopher P. Hodgens. He said the defendant punched the victim several times in the face and then delayed calling 911 for more than 30 minutes. She was pronounced dead at the scene.
The Office of the Chief Medical Examiner reported that Ms. Butler died of blunt trauma to the head and neck.
The State Police Detectives assigned to the Worcester County District Attorney’s Office and the Sutton Police investigated.