Father and Son Jailed for Brutal Murder Over Love Triangle
Wayne Peckham, 48, and his son Riley, 23, from Manby Close, Hilgay, were found guilty last month of murdering 39-year-old Matthew Rodwell. The victim had been in a relationship with Wayne’s wife and Riley’s mother. Both men denied the charges throughout the six-week trial.
Jealous Rage Ends in Savage Attack
Sentencing the pair at Norwich Crown Court on Tuesday 18 April, His Honour Judge Bate described Wayne as “obsessively jealous” and said the attack was “brutal and sustained.” Wayne was handed a minimum 24-year sentence, while Riley was jailed for at least 18 years.
The horrific assault took place at Wayne’s ex-partner’s home in Bulrush Close on 23 January last year. The father and son repeatedly punched, kicked, and stamped on Matthew. A desperate 999 call made by Matthew, hidden upstairs during the attack, captured the chilling screams. Riley can be heard shouting, “You are going to die,” as Matthew pleaded for police to hurry.
Chilling CCTV Shows Pre-Meditation
Police investigations uncovered CCTV footage showing Wayne tampering with the doorbell camera earlier that day and returning later. Riley also moved a CCTV camera at the back of the house just before the assault.
“It’s clear from watching the CCTV clips that both knew exactly what they were doing and why,” said Senior Investigating Officer T/Detective Chief Inspector Chris Burgess. “They intended to cause Matthew harm with the level of violence used. Matthew had been threatened by them multiple times during his relationship.”
He added, “Wayne and Riley acted in a jealous rage, like a pack of animals. These sentences ensure they can no longer endanger anyone else.”
Previous Violence and Additional Sentences
Both men were also convicted for an earlier assault on another man in December 2021 in Downham Market. Wayne was found guilty of two counts of assault occasioning actual bodily harm and another assault against his ex-partner on the day of the murder. Riley was convicted of assault occasioning actual bodily harm for the December incident.
Wayne will serve three years and three months for these assaults concurrently with his life sentence. Riley received a 12-month sentence for his assault, also served concurrently.
Police and paramedics were called to the scene last January, but despite treatment, Matthew was pronounced dead at the home.
Thoughts remain with Matthew’s family
The family showed tremendous bravery throughout the trial. Detective Burgess said, “Some evidence, especially the 999 call, was difficult to hear, but the unanimous jury verdict was the right outcome for Matthew’s loved ones. We will continue to support them as long as needed.”
