Brian Farmer from BBC News reported from Cambridge Crown Court that David Newton was sentenced to life in prison for the murder of retired postmistress Una Crown, aged 86. The brutal knife attack occurred in her Wisbech, Cambridgeshire bungalow resulting in her being stabbed four times and her throat being cut. The judge, Mr Justice Garnham, stated that Newton must serve a minimum of 21 years in prison for the crime.
Newton’s arrest came about after a DNA breakthrough, despite him being released prior to being charged. The court trial lasted over three weeks, ending with Newton’s guilty verdict. Public gallery reactions, including Mrs. Crown’s niece expressing relief after the conviction, marked the somber atmosphere during the sentencing. Mr. Justice Garnham commended Cambridgeshire Constabulary and the Crown Prosecution Service for their thorough investigation after an initial mishandling of the case.
Newton’s reckless actions included attempting to cover up his crime by setting fire to Mrs. Crown’s body using items from her house. Evidence presented in court pointed towards Newton being intoxicated during the attack. Despite facing health issues such as depression, diabetes, and rheumatoid arthritis, his sentence remains unchanged. The family of Mrs. Crown expressed their gratitude for the justice served and acknowledged the dignified conduct throughout the harrowing ordeal
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