Metropolitan Police officers are intensifying their search efforts in Croydon as they continue to hunt for the missing body parts of Sarah Mayhew. The grim discovery unfolded after Sarah’s remains were found scattered in Rowdowns Field in New Addington. Gemma Watts, 48, of Featherbed Lane, appeared in court charged with Sarah’s murder and the unlawful disposal of her body.
During the court hearing at the Old Bailey, prosecutor Tom Little KC revealed chilling details about the case. He stated that Sarah was allegedly murdered on March 8 and that her body was dismembered with power tools. Some parts of her body are still missing, prompting a significant investigation to locate them.
Watts, who appeared via video link from Bronzefield prison, confirmed her name but remained mostly silent throughout the proceedings. The prosecutor’s statements shed light on the gruesome nature of the crime, indicating that Sarah’s body was gruesomely dismembered before being discarded in the field.
Accompanying Watts in the charges is Steven Samson, 44, of Burnell Road in Sutton, who is also charged with Sarah’s murder and unlawful burial. Additionally, Samson faces three counts of indecent images, which are believed to be connected to the main charges. He is set to appear at the Old Bailey for further proceedings.
The court set a plea hearing for June 27 and a provisional trial date for February 17, 2025. Despite the grim nature of the case, Judge Ian Katz KC ensured that proper legal procedures were followed. At the conclusion of the hearing, Watts affirmed her understanding of the proceedings.
The charges against Watts and Samson come after a thorough murder probe initiated by the Metropolitan Police following the discovery of human remains on Rowdowns Field. Sarah’s family is receiving support from specialist Met Police liaison officers during this challenging time.
Commander Andy Brittain, who leads policing in Croydon, expressed gratitude to the detectives and officers involved in the investigation. He also thanked the local community for their support and extended sincere condolences to Sarah’s family.
As the investigation continues, authorities urge anyone with information to come forward and assist in bringing closure to this tragic case. Those with relevant information are encouraged to contact the police, quoting reference number 1656/02Apr.
