Man admits murdering ex-partner's mother

A 25-year-old man who admitted murdering his ex-partner's mother was told by a judge that he will spend a "very long" time in prison.

Jacob Clark, of Links Way, Luton, pleaded guilty to murdering Diane Cleary, 46, and wounding his ex-partner Caitlin Cleary on 20 January, during a hearing at Luton Crown Court on Wednesday.

Bedfordshire Police said Clark attacked Ms Cleary in the home he shared with his ex-partner in Turners Road North, Luton.

Judge Michael Simon remanded Clark in custody and said he would be sentenced on 5 September.

The judge said Clark would get a mandatory life sentence and he would be told how long he would serve in jail before parole could be considered.

He told the hearing: "There will be nothing short of a very long term of imprisonment."

Clark wept as he entered guilty pleas and listened to the judge.

Lawyers did not outline any details at the hearing.

Det Insp Adam Bridges described Clark as "dangerous".

"A post-mortem examination revealed Diane had sustained numerous injuries including stab wounds and those caused by blunt force trauma," said a police spokeswoman.

"Clark also seriously injured his ex-girlfriend as she fought to protect her mother.

"Inquiries revealed that moments after the killing, Clark ordered his ex-partner to cut his then-long hair in an attempt to obscure his identity.

"He then fled the scene, leading detectives to launch a manhunt."

"Clark was arrested less than 48 hours after the incident when scene guard officers spotted him attempting to return to the scene of the crime," she added.

Det Insp Bridges said Ms Cleary was "kind and vibrant".

"The impact of this crime has been deeply felt by all who knew her, especially her daughter, who showed immense bravery in trying to protect her," he said.

"Jacob Clark is a dangerous individual who responded to the breakdown of a relationship with devastating violence.

"There is no justification for his actions, and he must now face the consequences of taking a life in such a senseless manner."

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