Jealous Lover Gets Life for Brutal Murder of Single Mum
Habib Jackson, 32, of Toddington, was locked up for life today at St Albans Crown Court for the savage murder of 29-year-old Louise Rump. The mum-of-two was punched, strangled, smothered, and her flat set ablaze in a horrifying attack. Jackson must serve at least 23 years before parole can be considered.
Attack Fueled by Obsession and Rage
Jackson met Louise at her Kensworth flat, hoping to rekindle their relationship. When she rejected him, his obsession turned deadly.
- He punched her multiple times, then strangled and smothered her to death.
- He doused her home with petrol and set it on fire to cover his crime.
- CCTV showed him arriving at the flat on the morning of the murder.
“Louise was a single mother of two children. Due to your violent, controlling nature, those children must live with the brutal truth of their mother’s murder,” said Judge Michael Kay.
The judge blasted Jackson’s “primitive and narcissistic ego” and his blatant disrespect for women.
Family Left Devastated
Louise’s aunt, Jane Hedges, spoke out after the sentencing:
“Nothing will ever make up for our loss. Louise was full of life and energy and brought joy wherever she went. Her children will now grow up without their mum. We’ll do everything to support them and make sure they make her proud.”
Investigation and Justice
Police revealed Jackson carried a petrol bottle in a drinks container, claiming it was for a bonfire night. He was caught discarding bloodstained clothes near the scene and later hiding evidence at his workplace.
Superintendent Rob Hall called the crime “horrifically violent and despicable,” offering condolences to Louise’s family. Meanwhile, a co-accused, Christopher Hayward, was found not guilty after a four-week trial.
Detective Chief Superintendent Dee Perkins urged the public to stand against violent, controlling behaviour:
“This obsessive, controlling violence is evil and unacceptable. We must all take action to make women and girls across Bedfordshire safe. Report suspicious behaviour and challenge misogyny whenever you see it.”
