Gemma Watts and Steve Sansom
Photo by Elizabeth Cook/PA Wire/PA Archive

Double Murderer Steve Sansom Receives Whole Life Sentence for Gruesome Crime

South London, Jan 31, 2025 — In a harrowing case that has shocked the community, Steve Sansom, a 45-year-old builder, has been sentenced to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for the brutal murder of Sarah Mayhew, 38. The Old Bailey delivered the verdict on Thursday, ensuring Sansom will never be released from prison, reported by the Independent.

Sansom, who had previously served time for another murder and was out on a life licence, brutally killed Mayhew last spring. Alongside his partner, Gemma Watts, 49, Sansom dismembered the body of the unsuspecting victim and disposed of the remains in Rowdown Fields, New Addington, a park in south London.

Both Sansom and Watts admitted to the murder and charges of perverting the course of justice. The prosecution revealed that the duo dismembered Mayhew’s body, distributed the parts across various locations, and meticulously cleaned up the crime scene to conceal their heinous acts.

During the sentencing, Mrs Justice Cutts delivered a stern judgment. “Her fear and suffering must have been acute as she realised why she was there and what was happening. She was an innocent woman lured to that flat to die in order for you could both act out your bloodthirsty and wicked fantasy,” the judge stated, underscoring the brutal nature of the crime.

Sansom was handed a whole life order, ensuring he remains incarcerated for the remainder of his days. Concurrently, he received an additional five-year sentence for perverting the course of justice, which will run alongside his life term.

Gemma Watts, visibly emotional, was also sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 30 years. Like Sansom, she received an additional five-year sentence for perverting the course of justice, to run concurrently. Should Watts ever be considered for release, she will remain on licence for the rest of her life, effectively ensuring she remains behind bars indefinitely.

The case has drawn widespread condemnation from the public and authorities alike, highlighting the severe consequences of violent crime and the lengths to which perpetrators may go to evade justice. The brutal dismemberment and distribution of Sarah Mayhew’s body parts mark one of the most gruesome crimes in recent memory, prompting discussions on sentencing laws and the effectiveness of life licences.

Neath Port Talbot Council spokesman commented on the case, stating, “We are extremely saddened to hear this tragic news and our thoughts go out to the family. South Wales Police officers are currently investigating, and the council will offer any possible assistance.” Their support underscores the community’s response to such violent acts, emphasizing solidarity with victims and their families.

The sentencing of Sansom and Watts serves as a stark reminder of the judiciary’s role in delivering justice for the most heinous crimes. It also raises important questions about the rehabilitation of violent offenders and the measures needed to prevent such tragedies in the future.

As the community reels from the impact of Sarah Mayhew’s tragic death, support services have been made available to help those affected cope with the loss. The case continues to resonate, highlighting the enduring pain caused by violent crime and the importance of robust legal frameworks to protect society.

The Old Bailey’s decision ensures that justice is served, providing some solace to the grieving family and setting a precedent for handling similar cases with the utmost severity.

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