Sex game strangler swindled own parents

O’Malley (40)—branded “devious” as he was jailed for life last week for murdering his partner Kerry Sneddon—received a community punishment for fraud when the case went to court a few years ago.

Kerry’s dad Keith Gleeson (58), said: “He was in business with his parents and we understand he went into bankruptcy and his dad didn’t know anything about it.

“My daughter didn’t know anything about it and she stood by him.

“Kerry worked and looked after him. He hadn’t got a penny to his name.”

Police confirmed that unemployed chauffeur O’Malley had been convicted of embezzling money from his father and mother some years ago.

O’Malley was also involved in a failed business with his first wife Karen, it is believed.

The couple ran a property business but ended up owing money in rent and debts to other firms, including the publishers of the Advertiser, according to those who had dealings with them at the time.

Heartbroken grandfather Mr Gleeson paid a moving tribute to Kerry in a statement to the judge who sentenced O’Malley at Sheffield Crown Court last week.

He said: “Kerry was dearly loved by all the family and anyone who came into contact with her.

“She had an ability to understand the needs of everyone and was a shoulder to cry on.

“Not only was she a great daughter to me but also a young lady I could talk to as a friend and confidant.

“She was a straight talker with a good ear and a great perspective on life.

“Wherever Kerry went she touched those around her. She was friendly, non-judgemental and supportive regardless of the various beliefs of friends and family.

“I remain devastated by my loss and unaware at this early stage since Kerry’s death how I will cope.

“I can only begin to hope that time will heal this terrible hurt I feel.

“I may have to take each day as it comes.”

During O’Malley’s trial, it emerged that he had slept with over 300 women, including one he met and got pregnant when Kerry went away for a week’s holiday during the early days of their relationship.

Police believe that O'Malley had been expecting sex with Kerry on the night she died and snapped when she logged onto her computer instead.