Life for Life in Horrific Croydon Murder Case
Brutal Killing Shakes Croydon
A man and woman have been locked up for life after the savage murder and dismemberment of 38-year-old Sarah Mayhew in Croydon.
Steve Sansom, 45, and Gemma Watts, 49, were sentenced at the Old Bailey on Thursday, 30 January 2025, after admitting murder and preventing a lawful burial.
Sentence Details and Chilling Evidence
- Sansom, from Burnell Road, Sutton, got a whole life tariff – meaning he will never leave prison.
- Watts, of Holmbury Grove, Croydon, was handed a minimum 30-year sentence.
- Both also received concurrent 5-year terms for perverting the course of justice.
The horrific plot unfolded in early 2024 when Sarah was last seen entering Sansom’s home on CCTV on 8 March. It’s believed she was killed that day.
Detective Chief Inspector Martin Thorpe led the probe, which relied on hundreds of hours of CCTV, forensic work, witness testimonies and damning phone messages. In one chilling text, Watts wrote, “only if it’s a deal she ain’t leaving in one piece,” to which Sansom replied, “okay.”
Dismembered Body Discarded Across Public Spaces
The pair dismembered Sarah’s body and scattered her remains in various locations, including Rowdown Fields and the River Wandle. The grim discovery shocked the local community.
Investigation Praise and Justice Served
“Our thoughts are with Sarah’s family, who have shown incredible strength through this ordeal,” said DCI Thorpe. “The officers’ dedication ensured these monsters were brought to justice.”
The case serves as a stark reminder of the horrors of organised violence and the relentless efforts of police to protect the public and punish offenders.
