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Child's Courage Unravels Father's Murder Plot
16 Jan
Summary
- Husband jailed for life after child revealed his murder plan.
- Victim's child endured years of manipulation and abuse.
- New evidence led to a rare double jeopardy conviction.
Robert Rhodes, 52, has been sentenced to life in prison with a minimum term of 29 years and six months for the 2016 murder of his wife, Dawn. Rhodes initially succeeded in covering up the crime by manipulating their young child, even inflicting injuries on them and falsely claiming Dawn had attacked them. He was acquitted of murder in 2017.
However, years later, the child bravely confessed the truth to a therapist, revealing Rhodes' calculated plan to "get rid of mummy." This crucial testimony led to a rare double jeopardy trial at Inner London Crown Court, where Rhodes was also found guilty of perjury and child cruelty. The court heard how Rhodes had meticulously planned the murder, researching poisons and how to manipulate devices.
During sentencing, the child described the profound psychological impact of their father's actions, including PTSD and difficulties in relationships, stating his abuse "did not ruin my life." Dawn Rhodes' mother expressed that while not full justice, the verdict finally allows her daughter's voice to be heard. Prosecutors highlighted the child's immense bravery in finally bringing Rhodes to justice for the premeditated murder.
