Wayne Couzens Admits Murder of Sarah Everard at Old Bailey
Wayne Couzens, 48, today confessed to murdering Sarah Everard, 33, at the Old Bailey. He had already pleaded guilty last month to her kidnap and rape. The chilling case has gripped the nation.
Stranger Danger in South West London
The pair did not know each other. Sarah vanished on 3 March in Clapham, south west London. Couzens was arrested six days later on 9 March, sparking a huge police probe.
Met Police Chief Breaks Silence
Commissioner Cressida Dick spoke emotionally about the devastating crime. “My thoughts, and those of everyone in the Met, are with Sarah’s loved ones. It’s impossible to imagine what they’re going through,” she said.
“I was able to speak to them today and said how very sorry I am for their loss and pain. We are sickened, angered and devastated by Couzens’ terrible crimes. Everyone in policing feels betrayed.”
“Sarah was a fantastic, talented young woman with her whole life ahead of her. She was hugely loved and will be sorely missed.”
The Met’s hunt to find Sarah and arrest her killer was swift and relentless. Commissioner Dick praised the huge public support. “We owe a debt to Sarah’s family, friends and all who gave information and helped in every way.”
Couzens’ Police Career Scrutinised
- Joined Metropolitan Police Service in Sept 2018, transferring from Civil Nuclear Constabulary
- Served in South Area and bromley/" title="Bromley" data-wpil-keyword-link="linked">Bromley response teams
- Moved to Parliamentary and Diplomatic Protection in Feb 2020, guarding embassies
- Passed all vetting checks with no misconduct history
- Stopped being paid as a police officer as soon as legally possible after guilty plea
- Internal misconduct investigations underway
Couzens was remanded in custody and will be sentenced on 29 September at the Old Bailey. The nation waits for justice in this heartbreaking case.