Man Jailed for Strangling Girlfriend in Chilling Gillingham Flat Murder
Benjamin Bowler, 41, has been found guilty of killing his 39-year-old girlfriend, Kelly Price, inside their Gillingham flat in January 2020. The Richmond Road resident will serve at least 17 years behind bars after a trial at Maidstone Crown Court that wrapped up on 2 September.
Whiskey and Denial After Deadly Act
On the morning of 16 January, Bowler bought a bottle of whiskey from a nearby shop and drank it at home while Kelly lay strangled and lifeless in the same property. A post-mortem confirmed she died from strangulation.
Later that day, at around 4.40pm, Bowler hinted to an acquaintance over the phone that he had killed his girlfriend. The friend raced over but, despite being refused entry, saw major damage to furniture inside. Kent Police were called immediately.
Conflicting Statements and Court Justice
Police arrived swiftly, gaining access within ten minutes and discovering Kelly’s body in a bedroom. Bowler gave several conflicting statements, at times admitting he was a murderer but also claiming the ordeal was only a “bad dream.” He has been held on remand since.
Detective Inspector Neil Kimber said: “Despite the clear and obvious evidence against him, Bowler denied killing his partner and subjected her family to the torment of a trial. While he has never given a motive for the murder, it is clear he robbed Kelly of her life for completely senseless reasons.”
“His offending is worsened by the fact Kelly was a woman who trusted and loved him, looking forward to their future. It is utterly reprehensible that Bowler abused this trust inside their own home. I’m pleased our investigation has brought a violent man to justice with a long prison sentence.”
