ANDREW HIGHTON SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR BRUTAL MURDER IN INGOLDMELLS

In a tragic and disturbing case that has shocked the community of Ingoldmells, Andrew Highton has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of his partner, Linda Treeby. The devastating incident took place at Summerlands Caravan Park in Ingoldmells during the month of May, leaving a trail of violence and heartbreak that will resonate for years to come.

According to court reports, Ms. Treeby was found with an astonishing 34 different injuries, a clear indication of the savage and brutal nature of the attack. Witnesses and investigators described the assault as relentless and vicious, with Highton having physically assaulted her through punches and kicks. The court detailed how he also used a glass ashtray, smashing it into her face with such force that her nose was shattered into multiple pieces. The severity of her injuries underscored the ferocity of the attack, which left her critically injured and ultimately led to her death.

Highton, who is from Nottingham, attempted to justify his actions by claiming that he only punched Ms. Treeby “two, three or four times” after she allegedly attacked him first. However, the prosecution strongly contested this account, arguing that the extensive damage inflicted on Ms. Treeby could not have been caused by so few punches. William Harbage QC, the prosecutor, emphasized that the injuries were the result of a prolonged and sustained assault. He stated, “It was not just two or three or four punches. You could never have caused that much damage with so few punches. He must have struck her again and again and again and again. This attack was savage. It was brutal. He must have intended to kill her.”

The court also heard about the couple’s tumultuous relationship, which was described as “on-off,” “dysfunctional,” and “toxic.” It was revealed that the relationship had apparently resumed just weeks prior to the tragic event, highlighting the volatile nature of their connection. Judge John Burgess, presiding over the case, sentenced Highton to a minimum of 18 years in prison. During the sentencing, the judge remarked, “What you did to her was sustained, savage and brutal. I accept that there was no premeditation on your part. This awful death was the culmination of a toxic relationship rather than something that involved any planning.”

Highton expressed remorse during his police interview, claiming he did not intend to hurt Ms. Treeby but admitted that he “lost it” when she told him that his family hated him. He also stated, “I wish I’d done it years ago,” reflecting the remorse and regret that followed the violent act. The court’s findings made it clear that while the attack was not premeditated, it was driven by the toxic and destructive relationship that had spiraled out of control, resulting in a tragic loss of life. The case has left a lasting impact on the community of Ingoldmells, serving as a stark reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and unchecked anger.