The case of a woman's death after years of domestic violence within a former relationship came to a close on Wednesday.
Rodney Crawford was found guilty of murder in Durham County court. He received a sentence of life in prison without the possibility of parole.
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In 2023, Crawford was accused of strangling and killing his ex-girlfriend Nicole Bullock and leaving her in a Durham hotel room.
At the time of the murder, Bullock had a domestic violence protection order in place against Crawford.
Bullock's relatives spoke before the sentencing announcement. She had three sisters.
"There's a sense of relief," said Bullock's niece Janya Bullock. "It's a stepping stone for the system to step up and be better."
"She was a great single parent, a sister, auntie, daughter, brought joy and laughter to everyone," said stepmother Rosemary Jackson. "Always had a smile on her face. Not a day goes by I don’t think about her."
Crawford was also found guilty of assault by strangulation, first degree burglary and violating protection orders.
The murder brought on calls from family for more protection against domestic violence. Crawford had a history of domestic violence charges prior to Bullock's death.
Judge Keith Gregory showed a photo of Bullock battered and bruised after one of the encounters she had with Crawford.
"That's not love," the judge said multiple times.
Bullock was one of 135 domestic violence murders in North Carolina in 2023. That number jumped to a record-high 155 murders in 2024.
Family members said a weight was lifted off their shoulders in knowing that Crawford will be behind bars for the rest of his life. Bullock and Crawford had a child together.
"I hope you get what you deserve," said Jonathan Jackson, Bullock's brother. "I pray your son will be better than you and doesn’t make same mistakes you made."