Unofficial Carer Accused of Murder Told Paramedics Victim Had Been Dead for About 12 Days
Disturbing bodycam footage released by West Mercia Police shows the moment an unofficial carer, accused of murdering a disabled man, informed paramedics that the victim had been deceased for approximately twelve days. The incident unfolded after concerned neighbours in Telford, Shropshire, dialled 999, having not seen Leon Pratt, 64, since late September 2024.
Paramedics Confronted with 'Unhygienic' Scene and Shocking Admission
Upon arriving at the property in Downmeade, Hollinswood, on October 26, 2024, paramedics immediately noted an overpowering and "unhygienic" smell described as "fishy". Jason Trundle, 52, who had been providing day-to-day care for Mr Pratt after meeting him on social media, opened the door. Without hesitation, Trundle pointed towards a bedroom and stated, "he's in there, he's been dead about 12 days".
This prompted the first responders to question why he had not reported the death earlier. Trundle responded defensively, explaining, "Nobody knows I'm here. I don't have any money. I've got to look after that dog, so where am I going to go and what am I going to do?" He added that Mr Pratt was on his bed, wrapped in a duvet and mattress cover, and insisted, "He just died. And no, before you ask, I didn't kill him."
Court Hears Details of Fatal Injuries and Conflicting Accounts
Stafford Crown Court heard that Trundle, who was homeless, had moved in with Mr Pratt after their online encounter. Mr Pratt, who suffered from rheumatoid arthritis and used a wheelchair and walking stick, relied on Trundle for daily assistance. However, the prosecution, led by Richard Barraclough KC, alleges that Trundle's actions were far more sinister.
A post-mortem examination revealed Mr Pratt sustained multiple internal injuries, including fractured ribs and severe trauma to his throat and neck structures. Barraclough told the jury that seven fractures to the neck were "most probably caused by manual strangulation", requiring considerable force. While some rib fractures might be attributed to resuscitation attempts, Trundle does not claim to have performed CPR.
Prosecutors argue that the injuries are consistent with an assault, contradicting Trundle's account that Mr Pratt "just died". In the week before the discovery, Trundle told neighbours the victim had "gone a bit crazy" on medication, leading to an incident where Trundle allegedly put him in a headlock.
Legal Proceedings and Charges
Jason Trundle denies the charge of murder but has pleaded guilty to manslaughter, preventing a lawful burial, and fraud by false representation. The fraud charge stems from using Mr Pratt's bank card at a local shop while the victim lay dead at home. The Crown does not accept the manslaughter plea, maintaining that the evidence points to murder.
Barraclough emphasised to the jury, "The Crown alleges that when the defendant caused the death of Mr Pratt, as he accepts he did, he must have intended to at least cause him really serious harm." He urged jurors to avoid letting emotion cloud their judgment amidst the distressing evidence.
The trial continues as the court examines the complex relationship between the unofficial carer and his vulnerable victim, with bodycam footage serving as a pivotal piece of evidence in this harrowing case.
