Arsonist and Murderer Samuel Church Jailed for Life
Samuel Church, 37, has been locked up for life after trying to cover up a murder by setting fire to his victim’s home. He must serve at least 20 years before he can even think about parole.
From Not Guilty to Guilty Plea, Then Attempt to Backtrack
Church, from Acacia Avenue, Spalding, first pleaded not guilty to the murder of 52-year-old Vincent Markham and the arson charge at Lincoln Crown Court. But just before the trial kicked off in February last year, he switched tack and pleaded guilty to both.
The sentencing was due in May but was delayed when Church tried to ditch his guilty plea. In a dramatic twist, a judge at Warwick Crown Court slammed the door shut on that move in October, refusing his application.
Grim Details Behind the Crime
Vincent Markham died from severe facial and head injuries, a clear result of assault. Church himself turned up with burn injuries near the Broadgate junction, claiming he tried to rescue someone from the blaze.
After hospital treatment, he was arrested and hit with charges of murder and perverting the course of justice. On Friday 19 January, Lincoln Crown Court sentenced him to 20 years for murder, plus a concurrent 45-month term for perverting justice.
Detective Inspector Reacts
Detective Inspector Adrian Czajkowski of the East Midlands Police said the investigation confirmed Church’s guilt beyond doubt. The brutal attack and arson have rocked the local community.
