Mortgage broker who murdered wife jailed for life

Chris Paxton KC together with Marti Blair (Senior Crown Advocate, CPS) prosecuted Mr Robert Hammond, who was found guilty of the murder of his wife at the family home in Cambridgeshire.

The trial heard that 47-year-old Mr Hammond had mounted up £300,000 of debt and had lied to creditors that he had cancer to put off payments due.

Mr Hammond’s internet searches had included “how to disable the passenger airbag for a Ford Focus” (a type of car that the family had) and “overdosing on diazepam” – a medication his wife had previously used.

Mr Hammond reinstated his wife’s insurance policy 4 days before her murder, paying off arrears. In the event of her death, a £450,000 payout would have been made.

The five-week trial took place before Mr Justice Cavanagh (Lead Presiding Judge SE Circuit) at Cambridge Crown Court where Mr Hammond was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 24 years.

Chris Paxton KC was instructed by Helen Harmeston, CPS East of England.

Chris Paxton KC has appeared in many cases of Murder, Manslaughter, and Serious Violence, appearing for both defence and prosecution.

Chris Paxton KC has been shortlisted for Crime and Extradition Silk of the Year 2024 Legal 500 Bar awards.

Read more: [Christopher Paxton KC Profile ]

News stories:

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