Woman jailed for helping ex-wife's alleged murderer evade police

A woman who helped cover up the death of her ex-wife at their Aldinga Beach home in 2023 could be released from prison as early as May next year.

Anastasia Marshall, 32, previously pleaded guilty to assisting her new lover Johnathan Paul Parker escape apprehension or prosecution after he set the remains of her ex-wife Krystal Marshall, 38, on fire in October 2023.

Parker previously pleaded guilty to a count of destroying human remains, but also stood trial earlier this year after denying he murdered the 38-year-old.

A verdict is yet to be delivered.

Anastasia 'made choice' to help alleged murderer

In sentencing on Friday, Justice Sandi McDonald said it was apparent Anastasia Marshall’s actions had left her victim's family and friends "deeply betrayed".

"Ms Marshall, whilst you are of course to be in no way punished for Krystal's death, given the crime that you have pleaded guilty to, it is apparent from the victim impact statement's that your relationship with Krystal, and the role that you played after her death, have left those who loved her feeling deeply betrayed by your conduct," she said.

"You had full knowledge of what happened to Krystal. You made the choice to align yourself with Mr Parker."

Justice McDonald added that despite having "every opportunity to go to the police" Anastasia Marshall chose not to.

"Instead, you lied and attempted to assist Mr Parker in covering up Krystal's death," she said.

Justice McDonald said that Krystal Marshall had allowed her ex-wife and Parker to live with her, but was unaware of the nature of their relationship.

"The fact that she was prepared to do so was a reflection of her ongoing support and care for you," she said.

She added that the "atmosphere in the house was toxic" and marred by heavy methamphetamine use.

"You and Mr Parker had kept the relationship a secret … this is no doubt because you knew how Krystal felt about you," she said.

"You exploited that in order for you to remain living in her house."

Krystal's mother thanks authorities

Outside court, Krystal Marshall’s mother Maureen Brown said she had "nothing" in her and felt "dead".

"I don't think justice has been done, but it will be when she goes to heaven and meets our Lord because I'm a Christian," she said.

Ms Brown spoke while visibly emotional and holding a photo of her daughter.  

"I just want everyone to know this is my daughter, my baby," she said.

"I want to thank everyone who that was involved in the case -- the kindness that they gave us and the understanding."

Justice McDonald sentenced Anastasia Marshall to one year, 11 months and 16 days behind bars with a non-parole period of seven months.

She will be eligible for parole in May next year.