70-Year-Old Woman Sentenced to Life in Prison for Brutal Killing and Theft
Nancy Pexton, a 70-year-old woman, has been sentenced to life in prison for a brutal crime that shocked the community in north London. Pexton was found guilty of murdering her 69-year-old sister, Jennifer Abbott Dauward, at her home in Camden in June last year. The attack was so violent that Abbott suffered multiple stab and slash wounds, as well as a defensive injury.
The court heard that Pexton had visited her sister on the day of the killing and left the property about an hour later. It wasn't until several days later that Abbott was discovered dead in her living room, with unusual silence from the flat prompting a concerned neighbor to force entry. Unfortunately, by that time, it was too late, and Abbott was found unresponsive.
The investigation that followed revealed a disturbing act of violence, with Pexton stealing a gold Rolex watch that Abbott regularly wore. The watch was later recovered from Pexton's belongings, and she was arrested and charged with murder. The court was told that Pexton had initially denied involvement, but evidence gathered during the investigation led to her conviction.
In her sentencing, Judge Anuja Dhir KC described Pexton's actions as 'callous' and 'cruel', highlighting the ferocity of the attack and the fact that Pexton had taped her sister's mouth, leaving her to suffer in silence. The judge also noted that Pexton's actions after the killing showed a lack of remorse, demonstrating a 'deliberate and callous attitude' towards what she had done.
The impact of the killing on Abbott's family was also highlighted in court, with her son describing the act as 'monstrous' and saying that losing his mother had been an 'unbelievable nightmare'. The police have welcomed the sentence, saying that it reflects the gravity of the crime and ensures that Pexton will spend a substantial period of time in prison.