Gainsborough man admits killing 69-year-old man in Lincoln

John Connolly's body was found by officers

Owen Blades
Author: Julie CastonPublished 3rd Jan 2025

A Gainsborough man has pleaded guilty to the murder of 69-year-old John Connolly.

Owen Blades, of Tennyson Street was due to stand trial after initially entering a not guilty plea but changed it at a hearing at Lincoln Crown Court today (Friday, 3 January).

The 27-year-old admitted killing John in his home at Portland Street in Lincoln on June 13th 2024.

John’s body was found by officers on Tuesday, 18th June following a call to Lincolnshire Police from his family who were concerned for his welfare.

During today’s hearing, Blades also pleaded guilty to a burglary in Portland Street, Lincoln, possession of a knife in public place, and theft of food from Tesco.

All of these incidents took place on 13th June.

Blades will now be sentenced on 9th January, and was told by the court today that he should expect to receive a life sentence.

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