Man jailed for the murder of his mother in Newham

A man who strangled his mother to death before calling police to confess has been jailed following a Met investigation.

Richard Clayton, 45 (30.03.81), of St George’s Square, Forest Gate, was sentenced to life imprisonment to serve a minimum of 22 years following a hearing at the Old Bailey on Monday, 28 September.

Clayton strangled Angela inside their home on Tuesday, 17 February before calling 999 to report himself to police.

Detective Chief Inspector Joanna Yorke, who led the Met’s 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."

In a statement, Angela’s family said: “Today is about Angela. She was a fiercely devoted mother, adored nanny, wife, sister, auntie, and friend who filled our lives with extraordinary warmth and light. Her life will never be defined by this tragedy, and the love she gave us will guide our family forward.

“We thank the police and prosecution team for their support and ask for privacy so we can grieve and honour her memory in peace.”

Officers arrived on scene at 12:48hrs alongside the London Ambulance Service following Clayton’s call to police. Angela was found in her bedroom and was sadly pronounced dead at the scene.

Clayton was taken to custody and interviewed, alternating between answering no comment to all questions, and remaining in complete silence and pretending to be asleep.

Through extensive phone analysis and witness statements, detectives established he had a long history of stealing from family members, including his mother, to fund his drug habit.

He was charged with murder on Wednesday, 18 February.