Son Sentenced to 21 Years for Murdering Mum with Hammer
Dale Morgan, 43, from Honeyborough Green, Neyland, has been handed a minimum of 21 years and six months after admitting the brutal murder of his mother, Judith Rhead. The chilling verdict came down at Swansea Crown Court.
Gruesome Crime Scene in Pembroke Dock
Judith’s body was discovered at her Market Street home in Pembroke Dock on 20 February 2021. Officers found her with a plastic bag over her head. She had suffered 14 hammer blows to the head, with the murder weapon—a hammer—left near her body.
Morgan was arrested the same day and has remained in custody since. He pleaded guilty to murder at a hearing on 31 August.
Investigation Unites Police Force
Detective Superintendent Jayne Butler, leading the inquiry, praised the force’s teamwork. “Judith Rhead was the victim of a horrific attack,” she said. “The fact her own son killed her in her own home makes this even more devastating.”
“Our officers worked hard to apprehend her killer and bring him to justice, which was achieved promptly and professionally. This was a major investigation and I thank everyone involved.”
Motive Remains a Mystery
- Judith was last seen on 11 December 2020, believed murdered before Christmas—unopened presents still sat in her home.
- Morgan tried to hide his crime by staying in his mother’s flat, walking her dog, and lying to her friends.
- Despite his arrest, Morgan refused to explain his actions, only saying, “It’s a relief things are out of my hands now.”
- Investigators found Morgan was using Judith’s bank account, and she believed he was taking her prescription drugs.
DS Butler added, “Thanks to Judith’s family and friends for their honesty, patience, and dignity. We hope this sentence offers them some closure.”
