Adam Watson, 37, of Dukes Court, Queensmead, Farnborough, has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years after being convicted of murdering mother-of-two Samantha Holden, 56, in her Farnborough home.
The conviction follows a trial at Winchester Crown Court, where jurors heard that Watson had strangled and suffocated Holden in her Church Road West property on Friday, 9 September 2022. Watson’s DNA was found on Holden’s neck and under her fingernails, which led to his arrest two days later in Belgium. He was extradited back to the UK and formally charged with murder in February 2023.
The court heard that Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary officers were called to Holden’s home at 4:12 pm that day after reports of a sudden death. Watson was convicted of the murder on Monday, 2 September, and was sentenced today (12 September) at Winchester Crown Court.
Following the sentencing, Samantha Holden’s family expressed their relief, stating:
My family and I are relieved that there is now justice for our beautiful mum. We love her and miss her very much and now we can move forward with her in our hearts. We are very grateful for everyone in Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, particularly DI Howard Broadribb, DS Andy Panter, DC Caz Reason, and DC Kate Chapman, as well as the prosecution team who put so much time and care into ensuring our mum got justice.
Detective Inspector Howard Broadribb, who led the investigation, praised the courage of Holden’s family, stating:
Our thoughts, first and foremost, are with the friends and family of Samantha Holden. Not only have her family had to endure what happened that day, but they have had to relive their experience in court. This was a senseless and horrific incident that resulted in a much-loved mum losing her life. I hope that today’s sentence helps them rebuild their lives and provides a small sense of comfort that justice has been delivered.
He also thanked the investigative team who worked tirelessly to bring Watson back to the UK to face justice, adding:
Adam Watson will spend a long time in prison for what he has done. He is a callous killer, and his actions that day were deplorable. Tackling serious violence is a key priority for Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary, and I hope today’s sentence gives victims confidence to come forward and talk to us.
The tragic case of Samantha Holden has highlighted the impact of serious violence on families and communities, with Watson now facing the consequences of his actions behind bars.
