Maureen Rickards, 50, has been found guilty of murdering her husband, Jeremy Rickards, 65, in a shocking case that has unfolded in Canterbury, Kent. The verdict was reached by jurors at Canterbury Crown Court after five hours of deliberation following a two-week trial.

The prosecution provided evidence detailing a frenzied attack on Jeremy, in which he was stabbed multiple times in the chest. Prior to his death, he had also been subjected to domestic abuse at the hands of his wife, with reports indicating he had shown signs of physical harm, including being seen with bruising that appeared consistent with repeated assaults. A post-mortem examination revealed that he had suffered strangulation weeks before his death, and signs of recovery from recent rib fractures were evident.

The timeline of events leading up to the discovery of Jeremy Rickards’ body reveals a disturbing narrative. After being reported missing by his family in early June 2024, his body was uncovered on 11 July behind their property on St Martin’s Road, concealed under grass cuttings in the garden. In a troubling twist, Maureen Rickards had initially communicated to their daughter, Chima Rickards, that her father had travelled to Saudi Arabia for work and later suggested he had taken his own life there. During this period, she used his bank cards for various purchases, including cleaning supplies.

The investigation took a significant turn when a police officer investigating the missing person’s report detected a “sickly smell” emanating from the garden of the Rickards’ home, prompting a deeper search that ultimately led to the discovery of Jeremy’s decomposing body. He had been concealed within a holdall and wrapped in bin bags, indicating a clear intent to hide the crime.

Evidence presented during the trial included video recordings from Maureen’s mobile phone, which provided glimpses into their turbulent relationship. In these clips, Maureen is seen exhibiting aggressive behaviour towards her husband, further illuminating the abusive dynamic that characterised their marriage. Conversations with witnesses, including housemates, painted a picture of Jeremy as increasingly frail and fearful of his wife’s escalating violence.

In a tactical effort to conceal her actions, Maureen allegedly directed gardeners to dispose of the cut grass over her husband’s remains, demonstrating calculated behaviours meant to cover up the murder. After being arrested, she reportedly questioned, “What body?” when informed of the murder investigation.

Detective Inspector Colin McKeen noted the horror of the situation, stating, “This was a horrific murder of a man who we believe had been a supportive husband to his wife, despite her violence towards him.” He also highlighted the escalating nature of domestic abuse, emphasising the importance of reporting such incidents to authorities.

Following the jury’s unanimous verdict, Senior Crown Prosecutor James Fisher described Maureen Rickards as a “callous abuser” who inflicted “unimaginable pain and suffering” on her husband. He detailed the comprehensive domestic abuse Jeremy endured prior to his fatal attack. Fisher further stated that Rickards demonstrated no remorse or accountability for her actions.

Maureen Rickards is set to be sentenced next month at Canterbury Crown Court, where she faces a lengthy prison term.

Source: Noah Wire Services