Wife Jailed for Murdering Husband and Hiding Body in Garden

Maureen Rickards, aged 50, has been sentenced to 22 years in prison for the murder of her husband, Jeremy Rickards. The crime involved strangulation and stabbing, followed by the concealment of his body in their garden.

Rickards attempted to mislead authorities by claiming her husband had left for Saudi Arabia and taken his own life. However, the decomposing remains of the 65-year-old geologist were discovered by police, wrapped in bin bags within a canvas bag, in the garden. The discovery occurred on July 11th of the previous year, prompted by their daughter reporting him missing.

Evidence presented during the trial revealed a history of abuse. Video clips taken during their 27-year marriage showed Rickards abusing, beating, and mocking her husband. The judge noted the victim's frail health and vulnerability. Mr. Rickards suffered five stab wounds, including two that pierced his heart. His body was initially stored in an attic cupboard before being moved to the garden.

The investigation revealed that Rickards had directed gardeners to dump grass clippings in the garden, knowing it would help conceal the body. Detective Inspector Colin McKeen of Kent Police described the murder as horrific, highlighting the victim's supportive nature despite the abuse. The investigation suggested a pattern of violence by Rickards.

Following the murder, Rickards used her husband's phone to send messages to their daughter, falsely claiming he had reached Saudi Arabia. The daughter, suspicious of the messages, eventually reported her father missing. Rickards was later arrested for fraud after using her husband's bank card. During a search of their home, police found Mr. Rickard's body after detecting an "overpowering odour." Despite the evidence, Rickards maintained her innocence.

Mr. Rickards had also been strangled and suffered other injuries consistent with domestic abuse. Prior to his death, he was seen with facial bruising and had claimed to have been in a car accident. Neighbors witnessed his injuries and reported hearing sounds of violence. Detectives believe the murder occurred around June 9th, 2024. Neighbors also reported hearing something heavy being moved and seeing Rickards in the garden. Bloodstains were found in the cupboard where the body was hidden and on the ceiling of the flat below.