A Christchurch man has been sentenced to 17-and-a-half years in prison for the violent death of Nigel Wilson, who was attacked while walking his dog in Bexley Reserve in November 2022.

Bailey Messervy, 20, was handed the sentence today in the High Court at Christchurch, with a minimum non-parole period of seven years.

Detective Senior Sergeant Damon Wells said the attack was both “violent and senseless,” and that Wilson should never have been subjected to such an ordeal while simply walking his dog.

“Nigel’s family have had to endure the stress of a long investigation and having the life of their loved one, and their own lives, laid bare in a courtroom,” Wells said.

“Today’s sentence doesn’t alter the grief and the profound loss they have endured—nothing will bring Nigel back—but I hope they can now start to find a way to move forward.”

Wilson’s family expressed their gratitude to those who supported the investigation and trial, including medical staff, witnesses, victim support, and the Crown prosecution team. They also shared how much Nigel was loved and missed, highlighting his generous nature.