BOLTON BUILDER JAILED FOR EX-PARTNER'S BRUTAL MURDER
A builder named Christopher Taylor, aged 40, has been found guilty of murdering his former partner, Maggie Smythe, 29, in Bolton in January.He was sentenced to serve no less than 24 years in prison.
The court proceedings revealed that on 26 January, Taylor had lured Ms Smythe to a meeting, asserting that during a heated argument, he lost his temper and delivered a single punch to her forehead.
Despite admitting to manslaughter before the trial, the jury returned a unanimous verdict of murder.
Taylor enlisted the help of his 30-year-old brother, Brian Ottley, in disposing of Maggie’s body.
Fragments of her remains were recovered from beneath rubble at a site where Taylor was working; however, her head was never found.
The presiding judge, Martin Walsh, described Taylor’s actions as 'grotesque, heartless and chilling,' emphasizing his display of 'a callousness and coldness that was almost beyond understanding.' Maggie’s family shared their sorrow, describing her as 'bright, lively, and a best friend to all of us,' and expressed how her loss has permanently affected them.
Ottley received a nine-year sentence for aiding in the concealment of the body.
The court heard that Taylor had distorted the details of what happened and had exhibited behavior deemed 'monstrous.' Police are currently investigating to locate additional remains, following the discovery of Maggie’s leg by a dog walker.
Her family spoke of her kindness and readiness to help others.
The case highlighted the brutal and callous nature of the murder, with the court stressing the significant impact on family and community as a result of this heinous act.
