Man pleads guilty to strangling mother, pretended to be asleep in police interviews
Man pleads guilty to strangling mother, pretended to be asleep

Richard Clayton, 45, has pleaded guilty to the murder of his mother, Angela Clayton, 74, at the Old Bailey. The killing occurred on February 17 at their home in Newham, east London, where Clayton strangled his mother before calling 999 to report himself.

Police and London Ambulance Service arrived at 12.48pm. Angela Clayton was found dead in her bedroom. Clayton was taken into custody, where he answered no comment or remained silent, pretending to be asleep during interviews. He was charged with murder the following day.

Court Appearance and Family Statement

Appearing at the Old Bailey on July 13, 2026, Clayton admitted the murder. Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke of Scotland Yard 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.”

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Angela Clayton’s family said in a statement: “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.”

Sentencing Scheduled

Clayton is set to be sentenced at the Old Bailey on Tuesday, September 22, 2026.

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