Snapshot of Tiahleigh Palmer's murder case

WHO

Rick Thorburn, 57-year-old foster carer

CHARGES

Murder, interfering with a corpse, attempting to pervert justice, two counts of perjury

Thorburn murdered his 12-year-old foster daughter, Tiahleigh Palmer, on October 29, 2015 after his son, Trent, confessed to having sex with her and was concerned she was pregnant. Thorburn was worried it could cause Trent to go to jail. Her body was found on the banks of the Pimpama River a week later.

ARREST

Thorburn wasn't arrested until September 2016 after police bugged his family home and listened to their conversations. Thorburn told his family they had to protect Trent and keep to the story that Tiahleigh had disappeared after leaving their home to go to school.

PROPOSED TRIAL

In February, Thorburn sought a judge-only trial but a month later the court was told he would plead guilty to all charges.

Sentenced on May 25 at Brisbane Supreme Court on all charges

JUDGMENT

Justice David Boddice told Thorburn "your offending involves a truly appalling conduct".

"The reasons for that murder and your conduct subsequently can only be described as cold, calculating and callous.

"You murdered this defenceless child who relied on you for her protection ... and you did so to save one of your own children from the consequences of his actions."

SENTENCE

Life in jail, with a non-parole period of 20 years. First eligible for release in September 2036.