REECE DEMPSTER FROM TOTTENHAM SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR BRUTAL MURDER AND SEXUAL ASSAULT IN NORTH LONDON

Reece Dempster, a 23-year-old man from Tottenham, has been handed a life sentence with a minimum term of 34 years after pleading guilty to the heinous crimes of murder and sexual assault against Dorothy Woolmer, an 89-year-old widow. The tragic incident took place within her residence on Waltheof Gardens, Tottenham, North London, on the evening of August 5.

According to court reports, Dempster, who had consumed crack cocaine prior to the attack, forcibly entered Mrs. Woolmer’s home with the apparent intention of theft. Once inside, he subjected her to a brutal assault that involved both physical violence and sexual misconduct, using a truncheon as his weapon. The elderly woman was found dead at her residence, having succumbed to injuries described as “multiple blunt trauma injuries.” The attack was characterized by the court as involving “sexual or sadistic conduct,” with the judge describing Dempster’s actions as “deliberate and planned.”

During the proceedings, it was revealed that Dempster stands at 6 feet 3 inches tall, towering over Mrs. Woolmer, who was only 4 feet 11 inches and weighed less than eight stone. Prior to the attack, Dempster had confided in a friend, saying, “I only got a hundred quid - it wasn’t even worth it,” indicating a possible motive rooted in theft. The presiding judge, Mr. Justice Edis, expressed strong emotional condemnation, stating that Dempster “seemed to have killed her for pleasure” and emphasizing her vulnerability, describing her as “tiny and defenseless,” fully aware of her frailty.

Prosecutors highlighted that Dempster had been “casing” the house for several days, aware that it was occupied by an elderly and vulnerable individual. His troubled background was also discussed, revealing that he was raised by his grandmother but had a history marred by his father’s drug addiction and criminal behavior. Dempster had previous convictions for burglary and had breached a suspended sentence, although he was not under curfew at the time of the attack.

Family members of Mrs. Woolmer paid tribute to her, describing her as “a wonderful woman who was full of life.” Her sister expressed her anger and grief, stating that Dempster “deserves to spend the rest of his life locked away.” Mrs. Woolmer had been widowed since 2017 after 64 years of marriage. She died as a result of “multiple blunt trauma injuries” inflicted during the assault, which involved the use of a truncheon. The attacker also stole alcohol and her purse during the incident. Described as “the best big sister anyone could have ever asked for,” her family mourned her loss deeply, emphasizing her warmth, vitality, and the profound impact she had on those around her.