Tara Murray with The Age
The death of Mernda women Celeste Manno has sparked a call for changes to the laws to protect victims of stalking.
Ms Manno was in her Mernda home with her mother in the early hours of November 16 when a former colleague allegedly broke into her home, stabbed her and then jumped a fence.
Luay Sako presented himself to Mernda police station on the same day. The 35-year-old was later charged with one count of murder.
Ms Manno’s family said she had an intervention order out against Sako, after going to police with concerns she was being stalked.
A petition started by one of Ms Manno’s friends has more than with 6000 signatures calling for there to be changes to laws protecting victims of stalking.
“Violence against women has been an increasing issue in our world today,” the petition states.
“Violence against women resulting in death has been increasing. Many of these deaths can be prevented by introducing stringent laws to ensure that victims are protected.”
A fundraising page for Ms Manno was also set up, with more than $35,000 raised so far.
Ms Manno’s family and friends paid tribute on social media to Ms Manno, who would have turned 24 on November 22.
Her eldest brother Jayden Manno said his sister was the “rock, pillar of strength and protector” of the family.
“I’ve been trying to find the words to write this for what feels like forever now, and I’ve been putting it off because I didn’t want it to be real,” Mr Manno said on an Instagram post.
“I’ve always said of all the Mannos, you are the brightest, wisest, and most certainly the toughest. And you were.
“I’m sorry we didn’t get to spend as much time together as we would have liked, but I will forever cherish the time we had together.
“My daughter, who you were so proud and excited to call your niece, will always grow to hear stories of how amazing her Zia Celeste was and I promise you I will do my absolute best to raise her and to empower her to be as strong and as wise as you.”
