BARRY ROGERS AND PENNY JOHN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR PEMBROKE MURDER OF BETTY GUY

In a tragic case that has shocked the community of Pembroke, the daughter and grandson of Betty Guy, an 84-year-old woman from the town, have been handed life sentences after being found guilty of her murder. Barry Rogers, aged 33, and his mother, Penelope John, aged 50, were convicted of a heinous crime that involved drugging Betty with alcohol and then suffocating her within her own home in Pembroke during the year 2011.

During the sentencing hearing held at Swansea Crown Court, Judge Clive Lewis QC delivered a stern message to the convicted pair, emphasizing their lack of remorse and refusal to accept responsibility for their actions. The judge stated that Rogers and John believed Betty was frail and suffering from illness, leading them to mistakenly think she wished to die. This misguided belief was the basis for their decision to end her life, a decision that the court labeled as murder. Judge Lewis made it clear that both Rogers and John were equally culpable, asserting, “What you did was murder. Each of you is equally culpable. You both agreed to end Mrs. Guy’s life.”

Family members expressed their grief and outrage over the tragic loss. Lorraine Matthews, Betty Guy’s other daughter, spoke out, saying, “She loved life and was no way ill enough to warrant a mercy [killing].” The court proceedings revealed that police investigations played a crucial role in bringing the case to justice. Evidence included recordings in which Rogers admitted to his mother that he was responsible for Betty’s death, stating plainly, “It’s me that’s the one that’s done the act.”

Further details from police reports indicated that Rogers and John are expected to serve a minimum of 11 years before they become eligible for parole. The court also highlighted the disturbing circumstances surrounding Betty Guy’s death, noting that she was initially believed to have died of natural causes. She was cremated just four days after her death, based on an initial misdiagnosis that suggested her passing was natural. The entire investigation spanned over two years, involving extensive inquiries and evidence collection. The family expressed a sense of relief that justice has finally been served, though the pain of their loss remains profound.