Friend Turns Killer: Man Jailed for Brutal Murder in Ormesby
A 37-year-old man has been locked up for 18 years and four months after pleading guilty to the murder of his friend in Ormesby earlier this year.
Arrest at the Scene of Chilling Attack
David Thompson-Love was arrested at the home of 54-year-old Maurice Bennett following the savage incident on April 7. Maurice, described as vulnerable, suffered horrific injuries, one of which proved fatal.
“Maurice Bennett was a vulnerable man whose life was taken from him in the most brutal circumstances, by someone he thought was a friend,” said Senior Investigating Officer Inspector Matt Hollingsworth.
“Tragically, Maurice was found by family members. I can’t imagine the shock, horror and trauma this must have caused.”
“Our team worked tirelessly with the Crown Prosecution Service, forcing Thompson-Love to plead guilty to murder. We hope today’s sentence offers some comfort to Maurice’s family.”
Family Breaks Silence: ‘He Was a Loving Brother and Fiancé’
Maurice’s family voiced their heartbreak and disbelief over what happened.
“We now face Christmas without our lovely, caring brother, uncle, and fiancé, Moza—his favourite day of the year,” they said. “But what we will never understand or forgive is why?”
“Why did you brutally murder your best friend, someone who always had your back? In our eyes, you’re nothing but a coward.”
“We thank Cleveland Police and all agencies who supported us during this horrific time.”