West London Man Found Guilty of Murdering Partner and Faking Accident
Clifford Cowen Convicted of Killing Rita Fleming
A 59-year-old West London man, Clifford Cowen, has been found guilty of murdering his 70-year-old partner, Rita Fleming. The shocking crime took place at her home on Golborne Road, W10, in June 2024. Cowen was convicted at Kingston Crown Court on Thursday, 14 August, after the jury deliberated for just six hours.
Attempted Cover-Up Fails
Cowen tried to disguise Rita’s death as a tragic accident, suggesting she had drowned in the bath. But emergency services found Rita fully clothed in the bath with multiple injuries when they arrived on 23 June 2024. Cowen’s suspicious behaviour at the scene, including urging officers to check CCTV footage to clear him, quickly raised red flags. He was arrested on suspicion of murder.
Abusive Relationship Exposed
“As our investigation into Rita’s death developed, it became clear that Clifford Cowen was a controlling and abusive partner,” said Detective Chief Inspector Alison Foxwell, who led the case. “Thanks to key witnesses and the Specialist Crime Team, we’ve shown the court what a cowardly individual Cowen is.”
During police interviews, Cowen claimed their relationship was loving. However, investigators uncovered abusive messages and voice notes revealing his verbal attacks on Rita, often when intoxicated. He was charged on 5 July 2024, and after a four-week trial at the Old Bailey, found guilty.
Sentencing and Support Warning
Cowen will be sentenced at Kingston Crown Court on Monday, 1 September. DCI Foxwell added:
“Cowen is a master manipulator who tried to portray his relationship with Rita as loving. He attempted to cover up his actions with an elaborate alibi, but we dismantled his lies with witness testimony and evidence of his controlling behaviour. Rita was much loved by her family and friends, and I hope his conviction gives them some closure.”
Police urge victims of domestic abuse to come forward or seek help from specialist support agencies.
