A Coventry man has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 30 years for the murder of his grandmother, Pamela Croston.
Sam Croston, 37, was jailed today at Warwick Crown Court following his conviction earlier this year for the fatal attack on 75-year-old Pamela at her home on Everdon Road in September 2023.
Emergency services were alerted when Pamela’s personal alarm pendant was activated. Upon arrival, officers found Croston sitting on the ground near his severely injured grandmother.
Pamela was rushed to hospital but tragically died from her injuries. Despite claiming he had no memory of the attack, Croston was arrested at the scene and later charged with her murder.
A police spokesperson said: “Pamela’s injuries were extensive and could only have been the result of a deliberate and violent assault. Despite Croston’s denial, the evidence clearly demonstrated his responsibility.”
Pamela’s death shocked the local community, with neighbours describing her as a kind and gentle woman who was well-known and loved in the area.
Speaking after sentencing, Detective Inspector Gareth Unett said: “This was a deeply distressing case. Pamela should have been safe in her own home — the place where she trusted and cared for her family. Croston’s actions have devastated those who knew and loved her.”
Croston, of no fixed address, will now serve a life sentence and must spend a minimum of 30 years behind bars before being considered for parole.
Pamela’s family said in a statement: “We are heartbroken by the loss of our mother and grandmother. She was a wonderful woman whose life was taken in the most senseless and brutal way. While today’s sentence brings some justice, nothing will ever fill the void she has left in our lives.”
