FLEET MAN JAILED FOR LIFE FOR MOTHER’S MURDER AFTER PHONE BILL ROW
Geoffrey Hobbis has received a life sentence after being convicted of killing his 79-year-old mother, Barbara Hobbis, at their shared residence in Fleet.The murder stemmed from a dispute over a telephone bill.
In police custody, Hobbis admitted to the crime, explaining he had 'flipped' during the incident.
The confrontation began when he strangled his mother following an argument about her preference for using the landline instead of his preferred mobile.
Authorities discovered Mrs.
Hobbis on the lounge floor, and she later succumbed in hospital.
During his hearing at Winchester Crown Court, Hobbis pleaded guilty and was sentenced to serve at least 12 years.
Mr.
Justice Teare described the case as originating from an argument over a mobile phone that spiraled out of control.
Hobbis explained that his frustration had built up, leading him to lose control and only stopping when his arms ached.
Police footage capturing his arrest showed him telling officers, 'I'm the one you're looking for.' The judge highlighted that he usually maintained a calm demeanor, but this incident was provoked by a dispute concerning telephone usage.
