Oxford Man Sentenced to Life for Brutal Murder of Ex-Girlfriend
Robert Richens, a 35-year-old from Oxford, has been handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 16 years and one month for the murder of his ex-girlfriend, Rachael Vaughan, aged 40, from Abingdon. The sentencing took place on Friday, following Richens's guilty plea to the charge of killing Ms Vaughan in a violent assault described by the court as "brutal."
Disturbing Bodycam Footage Reveals Killer's Priorities
During his arrest, bodycam footage captured a chilling moment where Richens, while sobbing and restrained in handcuffs, expressed concern that he would "miss GTA," referring to the popular video game series Grand Theft Auto. When a police officer inquired, "Which GTA, what are you talking about Robert?" Richens replied, "Six," indicating the upcoming release of GTA 6. The officer responded, "Oh, you've got ages for that," to which Richens lamented, "I'm going to get life."
Details of the Fatal Attack Emerge in Court
Judge Ian Pringle KC detailed the horrific nature of the attack during the sentencing hearing. He stated that Richens subjected Rachael Vaughan to a "brutal attack" in her own home, where he "punched, kicked and stamped on her repeatedly." The assault resulted in several major rib fractures and a traumatic brain injury, leading to Ms Vaughan's death. Judge Pringle emphasized that "the pain and suffering she must have endured is an aggravating factor in this case."
The incident unfolded in the early hours of May 30 last year, when Richens called the police at approximately 6:30 a.m., confessing that he had killed a woman. Despite the efforts of paramedics, Ms Vaughan was pronounced dead at the scene. Richens was arrested later that same day and formally charged with murder on May 31.
Police Interaction and 999 Call Provide Further Insight
In the bodycam footage, a female police officer, off-camera, questioned Richens about the situation, asking if there was a body to locate. Through tears, Richens confirmed that the victim was at Ms Vaughan's house. He later told officers at the police station, crying and red-faced, "I'm going to miss GTA and that," highlighting his misplaced priorities amidst the gravity of his crime.
Earlier, in a recording of his 999 call to police, Richens informed the operator, "I think I accidentally killed someone," and sobbed as he described that "she's not moving." He claimed, "I did not mean to kill this person, I did not mean to do it," and expressed fear as he heard police cars approaching. The call handler instructed him to stay on the line until authorities arrived.
Investigator Condemns "Heartless" Actions
Following the sentencing, Senior Investigating Officer Detective Chief Inspector Stuart May of the Major Crime Unit offered condolences to Rachael Vaughan's family, stating, "My thoughts remain with Rachael Vaughan’s family and with everyone who loved her as they continue to face what is an unimaginable loss." He condemned Richens's actions as "heartless," noting that the killer left Ms Vaughan alone without seeking help and only contacted police when he had "nowhere else to turn."
This case has drawn attention not only for its violent nature but also for the unsettling revelation of the offender's concerns during his arrest, underscoring the tragic loss of life and the impact on the victim's loved ones.
