Gateshead man sentenced for murdering woman he met just days before
A man who murdered a woman at his home in Gateshead has been sentenced to life in prison.
Last updated 10th Jan 2025
A man who murdered a woman at his home in Gateshead has been sentenced to life in prison.
On the evening of July 22 last year, police received a report of a disturbance at an address on Appledore Close, in the Greenside area.
Emergency services attended and found Laura Robson, 37, with serious injuries consistent with being caused by an assault.
Despite the efforts of paramedics Laura was pronounced dead a short time later.
Following Laura’s death, her family described her as a “shining light” and said she would “always shine bright in our hearts”.
A full investigation was launched by Northumbria Police’s Major Investigation Team and Ben Hughes, 39, was arrested and charged with Laura’s murder.
Enquiries found that Hughes had only met Laura in the days leading up to killing her.
Hughes admitted murder in a hearing at Newcastle Crown Court in November, after which he was remanded in custody.
Today Hughes, of Appledore Close, was sentenced to life in prison and with a recommendation that he serve a minimum of 17-and-a-half years.
Following the hearing, the Senior Investigating Officer in the case, Detective Chief Inspector Rebecca Fenney, of Northumbria Police, said:
“First and foremost, I would like to pay tribute to Laura’s family and loved ones for the strength they have shown in the past six months.
“They have been put through a horrendous ordeal and hope they can take a degree of closure now Laura’s killer has been jailed.
“Ben Hughes is an extremely dangerous individual who has taken the life of a completely innocent woman.
“Through our investigation we found that he had only known Laura for a matter of days before he subjected her to a violent assault which claimed her life.
“Domestic abuse is never, ever acceptable and we will always look to identify those responsible for horrific offences such as this and ensure they face justice.”
For anyone who has concerns over a partner, the partner of a friend or family member, who may have a history of violence, Clare’s Law can be used to check the person’s background.
Officers can check their record to help people make an informed decision about their relationship and escape if necessary.
The service is free and 100 per cent confidential – no one will ever know that the applicant has applied for information.
To find out more, make an application under Clare’s Law, or visit the Force website to find out about the support we provide.
Anyone who has immediate concerns about someone’s safety should always dial 999.