**Crazed Stalker to Murderer: A True Crime Nightmare Unfolds in Melbourne**

In a chilling turn of events, the trial of L Seiko, who brutally murdered 23-year-old Celeste Mano, has unveiled a harrowing tale of obsession and violence that has shaken Melbourne to its core. Over two years of relentless stalking culminated in a horrific attack, leaving a family shattered and a community in shock.

Celeste, a beloved daughter and dedicated employee, was targeted by Seiko after a brief and uncomfortable encounter at their workplace. His infatuation spiraled into a nightmare of harassment, with him bombarding her with explicit messages even after she made it clear she wanted nothing to do with him. Despite Celeste’s desperate pleas for help, the police response was tragically inadequate.

On the night of November 16, 2020, Seiko executed his sinister plan. Armed with a hammer and a kitchen knife, he broke into Celeste’s bedroom while she slept, attacking her with a ferocity that left her with over 23 stab wounds. In a matter of minutes, her life was extinguished, and Seiko fled the scene, leaving behind a blood trail that would ultimately lead to his arrest.

After a chaotic confession at the police station, where he attempted to portray himself as the victim, Seiko was charged with murder. In a trial that began in January 2024, forensic experts revealed his manipulative nature and lack of remorse, ultimately leading to a guilty plea and a 36-year prison sentence. Celeste’s mother, Agie, expressed profound disappointment at the leniency of the sentence, fearing that Seiko could one day be free to harm again.

In the wake of this tragedy, Agie has become a fierce advocate for victims of stalking, calling for stricter laws and protective measures to prevent such horrors from happening again. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this true crime nightmare, the haunting question remains: how many more lives must be lost before the justice system takes stalking seriously?