Ilford man sentenced to life for unprovoked murder of neighbor

ILFORD MAN SENTENCED TO LIFE FOR UNPROVOKED MURDER OF NEIGHBOR

A 31-year-old man named Jamie Cook has been handed a life sentence in prison following his conviction for murdering his neighbor, Hilary Round, in Ilford.

The court was informed that Cook strangled the 67-year-old woman, who was described as 'kind and caring,' using a dressing gown cord.

The attack was described as completely unprovoked, taking place at her residence around October 12.

Authorities found her body after they forced entry due to concerns about her wellbeing.

Subsequently, Cook was detained at an address on Horns Road, Ilford, where police also recovered Hilary’s bank card.

CCTV footage showed him using her card at various supermarkets and eateries on October 6 and 7, suggesting that he had stolen her banking details.

The dressing gown cord used as the murder weapon was located at his mother’s flat.

He was formally charged with murder on October 14 and pleaded guilty at Snaresbrook Crown Court on March 16.

Additionally, Cook admitted to two counts of fraud.

The court sentenced him to a minimum of 20 years and 205 days in prison.

Detective Chief Inspector Jo Yorke condemned Cook’s actions as a 'callous' and 'unprovoked attack,' highlighting the seriousness of the crime and noting that Cook only notified authorities nearly a week later.

Hilary Round’s sister, Louise Moseley, gave a victim impact statement describing her sister as 'very kind, caring, friendly, helpful and generous,' who always 'saw the best in people.' She was passionate about singing in her gospel choir, enjoyed gardening, and was dedicated to helping her community.

Her family expressed that Hilary aspired to make the world a better place.