Stoke-on-Trent Man Jailed for Murder of Valentina Cozma
Georgian Constantin, 42, from Stoke-on-Trent, was sentenced today at Stafford Crown Court after being found guilty of murdering 40-year-old Valentina Cozma. The jury reached their verdict on 12 October, bringing to an end a chilling case that shocked the local community.
Cold-Blooded Attack Caught on CCTV
On 8 February 2023, CCTV showed a hooded figure—later identified as Constantin—lingering outside Valentina’s home, crouching near a low wall for 45 seconds before walking off. The footage suggests he was planting petrol in preparation for the attack the next day.
The next day, Constantin tried to sell a laptop in Hanley with the claim he ‘needed money.’ This same laptop was later found near Valentina’s body, linking him directly to the scene. Shortly before the devastating blaze, CCTV captured Constantin retrieving something from Valentina’s property and packing it into his rucksack.
Fire and Fatal Threats
Valentina’s home was engulfed in flames on 9 February, with the kitchen at the rear ablaze and spreading rapidly. Within minutes of the fire, Constantin used Valentina’s phone to send a chilling voice message to her boyfriend, saying he ‘has sorted her out and was coming for him.’
He fled Stoke-on-Trent, heading to London, where police arrested him five days later.
Detective’s Tribute to Victim
“Today’s sentence reflects the gravity of Georgian Constantin’s crimes,” said Detective Inspector Adrian Webb. “This is a tragic case in which a caring mother, who was trying to build a better life for herself and her son, was taken away by Constantin’s self-centred actions. My thoughts remain with Valentina’s son and the rest of her family.”
