Double Killer Mark Brown Jailed for Life
Mark Brown, 41, has been sentenced to life behind bars with a minimum term of 49 years, minus 380 days already served on remand. The vicious killer was found guilty of murdering Leah Ware, 33, and Alexandra Morgan, 34, at Little Bridge Farm in Westfield, near Hastings.
Seven-Week Trial Ends in Guilty Verdict
Brown denied both murders, but a unanimous jury at Hove Crown Court convicted him on December 1, 2022, after a long seven-week trial. On January 13, 2023, the judge handed down his life sentences to ensure Brown never hurts another woman again.
Brown is a dangerous individual who poses a significant threat to women,’ said Detective Chief Inspector Neil Kimber of the Kent and Essex Serious Crime Directorate. ‘He preyed on Leah and Alex’s vulnerabilities and exploited their trust for his own gain.’
‘It was critical that his sentence reflect the heinous nature of his crimes and ensure he cannot harm any other women for life,’ the judge added.
Details of the Grim Killings
- Alex Morgan – 34-year-old mum of two, met Brown via an adult services website.
- She went missing on November 18, 2021, triggering a police investigation.
- ANPR, CCTV, and phone data confirmed Alex drove from Sissinghurst near Cranbrook to meet Brown at Little Bridge Farm on November 14.
- Brown killed Alex there and burned her body in an oil drum, later found near Sevenoaks where he worked.
- Brown admitted to burning Alex’s body but claimed she died from a fall, denying murder.
Leah Ware’s Mysterious Disappearance
- Leah, 33, was in a relationship with Brown since March 2018 and lived in his shipping container at Little Bridge Farm.
- She vanished around early May 2021, having cut off contact with family and friends.
- Prescription drugs with her name were found in Brown’s van.
- Despite Brown regularly collecting Leah’s prescriptions and withdrawing money from her bank account, he spread false stories that she was in hospital or had committed suicide.
- Sussex Police charged Brown with Leah’s murder in February 2022 after concluding he was the last to see her alive.
Police Comment and Ongoing Efforts
‘We hope this conviction delivers some justice to the families and helps them come to terms with their tragic losses,’ said Detective Superintendent Andy Wolstenholme from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team.
‘Although the trial is over, we remain committed to investigating any leads that could locate Leah’s body and give her family the answers they so desperately need.’
