Gateshead man given life sentence after admitting murder of woman at his home

On the evening of July 22 last year, police received a report of a disturbance at an address on Appledore Close, in the Greenside area.

Emergency services attended and found Laura Robson, 37, with serious injuries consistent with being caused by an assault.

Despite the efforts of paramedics Laura was sadly pronounced dead a short time later.

Following Laura’s death, her family described her as a “shining light” and said she would “always shine bright in our hearts”.

A full investigation was launched by Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team and Ben Hughes, 39, arrested and charged with Laura’s murder.

Enquiries found that Hughes had only met Laura in the days leading up to killing her.

Hughes admitted murder in a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court in November, after which he was remanded in custody.

On Friday, January 10, Hughes, of Appledore Close, was sentenced to life in prison and with a recommendation that he serve a minimum of 17-and-a-half years.

Following the hearing, the Senior Investigating Officer in the case, Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney, of Northumbria Police, said: “First and foremost, I would like to pay tribute to Laura’s family and loved ones for the strength they have shown in the past six months.

“They have been put through a horrendous ordeal and hope they can take a degree of closure now Laura’s killer has been jailed.

“Ben Hughes is an extremely dangerous individual who has taken the life of a completely innocent woman.

“Through our investigation we found that he had only known Laura for a matter of days before he subjected her to a violent assault which claimed her life.

“Domestic abuse is never, ever acceptable and we will always look to identify those responsible for horrific offences such as this and ensure they face justice.”

For anyone who has concerns over a partner, the partner of a friend or family member, who may have a history of violence, Clare’s Law can be used to check the person’s background.

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Officers can check their record to help people make an informed decision about their relationship and escape if necessary.

The service is free and 100% confidential – no one will ever know that the applicant has applied for information.

To find out more, make an application under Clare’s Law, or visit the Northumbria Police Force website.