A man has confessed to the murder of a mother-of-three who was found dead inside her Portsmouth home. Charlie James Jeans, 31, changed his plea to guilty at an appearance before Portsmouth Crown Court on Monday afternoon.
Discovery of the Body
Samantha Murphy, 32, was found dead at a house on Wadham Road in Portsmouth on June 5, 2025, by police. Officers attended the address after reports that a body had been located on the premises. Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary launched a murder investigation following the tragic discovery, resulting in the arrest of two men on suspicion of murder.
Guilty Plea
Jeans, of Margate Road in Southsea, admitted to murdering Samantha on the fifth day of his trial. He has been remanded to appear at the same court for sentencing on June 17.
Tribute to Samantha
Days after her death, one of Samantha’s sisters, on behalf of her family and friends, released a public tribute to her younger sibling. The tribute reads: “Sammie-Jo, our bright, smiling soul, radiated joy to everyone she met.” It continues: “She was a devoted mother to her three beautiful children, the bubbly baby sister who brought laughter and light to her siblings, and the fun-loving auntie who adored her nieces and nephews.”
The tribute also highlights her personality: “Sam was the friend everyone went to for advice and a compassionate ear. Our gracious host at Halloween and Christmas, Sam’s home was always filled with warmth and cheer. She was strong-willed and determined, yet her kindness shone through, always quick to see the good in everyone.”
Her love for music and dancing was remembered: “Sam loved her music and dancing, truly embodying the life and soul of every party. Her singing voice, especially when she belted out her version of Amy Winehouse’s ‘Back to Black’, never failed to draw admiration and applause.”
The tribute concludes: “We take comfort in knowing Sam would want her family and friends to pull together, ensuring her children are always protected and surrounded with the love she so generously gave. Love from your mum Denise, your three beautiful children, older sisters Louise, Jodie & Kelly, big brother Carl & brother-in-law Ollie, your wonderful friends Marissa, Emma & Charlene, and from your dad Phillip.”
