Keith Hall Admits Manslaughter of Rachel Wilson After 19 Years
Hall Denies Murder but Pleads Guilty to Manslaughter
Keith Hall, 62, has admitted manslaughter over the death of 19-year-old Rachel Wilson in 2002, but denied murdering her at Teesside Crown Court. The Crown Prosecution Service dropped the murder charge, with the judge confirming it would be “very difficult” to prove intent.
Living Off Victim’s Earnings and More Charges
The Middlesbrough man also admitted living off prostitution, having taken money earned by Rachel, as well as perverting the course of justice by trying to influence a witness to change a police statement. Sentencing is set for 29 June.
Family Finally Gets Some Justice
Rachel, last seen in May 2002, remained missing for a decade until her remains were found in a shallow grave near Coulby Newham in 2012. Mrs Justice Lambert acknowledged the family’s acceptance of the manslaughter plea, saying, “It would have been very difficult to prove intent.”
“Keith Hall knows what he did to Rachel. He has let her mother and family go through turmoil for the last 19 years,” said Temporary Detective Superintendent Paula Dewell. “I am pleased that we have been able to give justice to Rachel and resolve some unanswered questions for the family.”
Significant Custodial Sentence Expected
Medical reports hinting at Hall’s life expectancy have been submitted. Mrs Justice Lambert warned he faces a “significant custodial sentence” regardless. The grim details of how Rachel died were not revealed in court.
