Farrow life sentence 'right' says police detective chief inspector (From Kidderminster Shuttle)

Farrow life sentence 'right' says police detective chief inspector

5:14pm Friday 2nd November 2012 in Local

THE police officer who led the Betty Yates murder investigation for West Mercia Police says Stephen Farrow’s verdict was “the right one”.

Stephen Farrow was today jailed for life for murdering Mrs Yates and Gloucestershire clergyman Rev John Suddards. The jury at Bristol Crown Court returned their verdicts after a trial which lasted more than four weeks.

Detective Chief Inspector Neil Jamieson of West Mercia Police said the sentence meant Farrow would “no longer be a threat to society”.

“Clearly he is a highly dangerous individual who has expressed no remorse for the terrible crimes he committed,” he added.

"The officers who worked on this inquiry were horrified at the nature of the violence used in murder of Betty Yates and the callous disregard for life. We were determined to bring her killer to justice and do our very best for Betty's family.

"This was a massive policing operation which came with many challenges including the fact the scene was an isolated, rural location and there were not many visitors.

“Betty was a much-loved and well-respected member of the community and involved in many local groups and clubs.

"To give some idea of the scale of it, the inquiry into Betty's murder alone generated nearly 1,500 statements and more than 4,800 documents. During this enquiry we recovered more than 3,300 exhibits and searched more than 16 acres of land.

"Ultimately the case was solved by working closely with Avon and Somerset Police. We are immensely grateful for their contribution.

"I would also like to praise everyone who has worked on this inquiry for their professionalism and dedication.

"Media appeals played their part in bringing forward witnesses and information and we would like to thank them for keeping the investigation in the public eye.

“We also appreciate the support and understanding we have received from the community at Bewdley and thank the many people who did come forward with information.

"Everything we have done has been with one purpose - to secure justice for the families of Betty Yates and Rev John Suddards. My thoughts and those of all the officers from West Mercia involved in this investigation are with them."