Jacob Clark jailed for brutal murder of ex-partner's mother

JACOB CLARK JAILED FOR BRUTAL MURDER OF EX-PARTNER'S MOTHER

A man named Jacob Clark, aged 25, was convicted of murder and sentenced to a minimum of 25 years in jail for the brutal killing of his ex-partner's mother, Diane Cleary.

The court heard Clark carried out the murder at the home on Turners Road North, Luton, on 20 January.

Clark repeatedly stabbed Diane Cleary with a knife and scissors in what was described as a "frenzied" attack, resulting in her dying with 37 stab wounds and a brick used in the assault.

The prosecuting barrister stated that the attack was "brutal and senseless," and the judge imposed a mandatory life sentence with a minimum term of 25 years and six months before parole could be considered.

The judge described the act as "disgusting" and "selfish," emphasizing that Diane was protecting her child during the attack and paid with her life.

Post-mortem tests confirmed the number of wounds, and Clark pleaded guilty in June to the murder.

After his arrest, Clark told police he had "blacked out," and he admitted wounding Caitlin Cleary, Diane's daughter.

Clark was also said to have shown remorse, crying in court and shaking as his ex-partner spoke about how her mother was the one person she needed most.

The attack was motivated, apparently, by Clark's abusive behavior and the breakup with Caitlin Cleary.

Clark is understood to have worked at McDonald's, and his actions, including an attempt to change his appearance by cutting his hair with scissors, were described as cowardly and extreme.

Detective Inspector Adam Bridges condemned the violence as "most brutal and senseless," highlighting the pain inflicted on the family.