Richard Clayton, 45, has admitted to strangling his 74-year-old mother, Angela Clayton, to death in their home in St George's Square, Newham, on February 17. He called police at 12:48pm to report the killing, but during subsequent interviews, he was evasive, answering "no comment" to all questions or pretending to be asleep.
Guilty plea at the Old Bailey
At a hearing at the Old Bailey on Monday, July 13, Clayton pleaded guilty to murder. He will be sentenced on September 22. Officers and the London Ambulance Service arrived at the scene after Clayton's call, finding Angela in her bedroom, where she was pronounced dead. Clayton was arrested and charged the next day.
Family and police statements
Angela's family released a statement saying: "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."
Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who led the investigation, 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."
