BURY ST EDMUNDS MAN CONVICTED OF MURDER IN SHOCKING CASE
Andrew Ratcliffe, 56, a resident of Petch Close in Bury St Edmunds, was convicted of the murder of 50-year-old Mary Roberts.The court was informed that Roberts was found at the back of the St Edmunds Tavern having been sexually assaulted and strangled in March.
The trial at Ipswich Crown Court lasted a week and demonstrated that Ratcliffe was arrested with her underwear in his pocket and in possession of a ring belonging to the victim, who reportedly struggled with alcohol after an accident.
CCTV footage displayed both individuals leaving the pub area prior to the killing, and DNA analysis connected Ratcliffe to the scene, revealing her DNA under his fingernails and his on her chest.
Ratcliffe denied the murder, stating he was conversing with her before he fell asleep on the ground.
The prosecution suggested that Ratcliffe's sexual obsession with Roberts and her apparent rejection may have contributed to her death.
The court is now set to deliver a sentencing.
Detective Inspector Kevin Hayward expressed gratitude to the public for their assistance, noting that the combination of witness information and forensic evidence was crucial in securing the conviction.
He emphasized that Mary Roberts was vulnerable and suffered a brutal death, and hoped the verdict would bring some closure to her loved ones.
