LONDON OFFENDER GUILTY OF STABBING AUNT IN PSYCHOTIC EPISODE
Jordan Clarke, 22, was found guilty of stabbing his 38-year-old aunt, Samantha Clarke, to death in her home in Brixton, southwest London, on 15 April 2018.The court heard he was likely suffering from an acute psychotic disorder at the time.
He had previously denied manslaughter but was convicted after the jury deliberated for seven hours.
Clarke had locked his grandmother, Beryl Clarke, in the kitchen and his uncle outside the house before committing the murder.
The incident occurred just days after Clarke's GP had urgently referred him to a mental health intervention team.
During the trial, Clarke's mental health was a central point, with expert testimony suggesting his disorder affected his ability to make rational decisions.
Following the conviction, he was remanded to a mental health facility and is scheduled for sentencing in May.
The court heard that Clarke believed his aunt was the root of his mental health issues, which contributed to the tragic event.
His father expressed concern that his son’s mental state was not adequately managed beforehand, as a note sent to the judge highlighted the failure of detention or hospitalisation prior to the murder.
