A man from East London who telephoned emergency services to confess he had killed his brother in a violent rage has been sentenced to life imprisonment.
A Fatal Confession to Police
Peter John, aged 59 and from Hackney, received a life sentence at Inner London Crown Court on Thursday, December 18. He must serve a minimum of 15 years in prison after pleading guilty to murdering his 60-year-old brother, Miller John.
The court was told how John presented himself at Stoke Newington police station shortly after 10am on Monday, March 3. While standing outside, he dialled 999 and informed the operator he believed he had committed murder. When pressed for details, he stated: “I bludgeoned my brother last night in a fit of rage.” Officers emerged from the station and detained him while he was still on the call.
Brutal Attack with Multiple Weapons
John explained to police that the incident had occurred the previous evening, on Sunday, March 2. He claimed he woke the next morning to find his brother dead on the floor of their shared home on Homerton Road. He then walked to the police station.
Officers from the Metropolitan Police and the London Ambulance Service rushed to the address. There, they discovered Miller John’s body. He had been subjected to a sustained and brutal assault using a number of implements, including a garden fork and a walking stick. The attack resulted in multiple puncture wounds to his leg and head.
Investigation and Sentencing
Peter John was arrested on March 3 and charged the following day. His early confession was pivotal, but detectives still meticulously reviewed evidence such as CCTV footage to corroborate his movements before and after the killing, building a robust case for court.
Detective Inspector John Marriott, the senior investigating officer, said: "I hope today’s sentencing brings some comfort to the John family. I can only imagine how hard the past few months have been for them. Peter carried out a senseless attack against his brother in the home they shared together. Throughout this difficult time, our officers have worked closely with the family to provide support, as always our thoughts are with them."
The judge imposed a life sentence, with John required to spend at least 15 years behind bars before he can be considered for parole.
