A man has been jailed for 1991 murder of Sarah Crump who was attacked and killed in her own home in Southall.
David Smith, 66, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 27 years following a hearing at Inner London Crown Court on Friday, 26 May. He was found guilty of Sarah’s murder following the conclusion of a trial at the same court on Wednesday, 24 May.
Detective Superintendent Rebecca Reeves said: “Smith’s sentencing today bring to a close a 32-year quest for justice for Sarah’s family. I am delighted that Smith has finally been held to account for this heinous crime; he is a depraved man who will now more than likely spend the rest of his life behind bars.”
In a statement read outside court on behalf of Sarah’s family, they said: “At long last justice for our lovely Sarah. If only our Mum and Dad were here with us today to share this momentous occasion.
“After the disheartening acquittal at the Old Bailey in 1993, our Mum said that David Smith would kill again. Eight years after Sarah’s murder, he was found guilty of an even more savage murder and mutilation of a young woman and mother, which he later admitted.
“Thirty years may have passed but we still miss Sarah – she was a shining light in a murky world who wished for the best but found the worst of humanity.
“We would like to thank everyone involved in this very difficult investigation. Their determination and tenacity has ensured the correct verdict has finally been reached.
“Our thanks extend especially to all the witnesses who came forward at great personal sacrifice.”
