Richard Clayton, 45, from Newham, east London, has been jailed for life for murdering his 74-year-old mother, Angela Clayton. He pleaded guilty to strangling Angela inside their home in St George's Square on February 17 before calling 999 to report himself to police.
At the Old Bailey, the court was told that Clayton had stolen from his mother to buy cannabis and cocaine before and after her death. In January, he pawned a gold pendant and chains while his mother was in hospital and withdrew £200 in cash from her bank account after he killed her.
Phone Sex Line Calls
Unemployed Clayton had also repeatedly called a phone sex line as his mother lay dead in the house nearby, the court was told. He was sentenced to life in prison today and must serve a minimum of at least 22 years.
Officers arrived at the scene at 12.48pm alongside the London Ambulance Service. Paramedics found Angela in her bedroom and pronounced her dead at the scene. Clayton was taken into custody and interviewed, answering "no comment" to questions or remaining completely silent while pretending to be asleep. He was charged with murder on February 18.
Family Statement
In a statement released after his conviction, Angela's family said: "Everything we have done over the last six months has been entirely for our Mum, Angela, to ensure she received the justice she completely deserved.
"As we look to the future, we kindly request privacy from the media. We need space and time to grieve together as a family and to protect the beautiful legacy of love she left behind.
"Lastly, we would like to express our sincere thanks to the Metropolitan Police and our support officers for their work and dedication in bringing this case to justice."
Police Response
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who led the Metropolitan Police's investigation, previously said: "Our thoughts are with Angela's family and friends, who have lost a much-loved mother, grandmother and friend. While no outcome can undo their loss, we hope today's conviction brings them some measure of closure.
"Our commitment to tackling violence against women and girls remains firm. We encourage anyone affected to seek help from the police or support services. We will respond with care and sensitivity, working with victims to provide the right support, keep them safe, and robustly pursue those responsible."
