Robber jailed for life after killing pensioner in his own home

A robber has been jailed for life with a minimum of 31 years after he “brutally” attacked and murdered a pensioner in his home.

Jonathan Donne, 42, tied up the 67-year-old man with blue nylon rope before beating him to death.

John Williams’ body was found in his lounge with his hands tied behind his back by friends and neighbours, a day after the robbery at his home in Bonymaen, Swansea, on March 31 this year.

Donne was found guilty of murder and robbery following a trial in Swansea on Tuesday, after the court heard he ransacked Mr Williams’ home intending to steal cash and cannabis.

On Thursday Mr Justice Lewis sentenced Donne to life imprisonment with a minimum of 31 years at Swansea Crown Court.

Following the sentencing Detective Chief Inspector Darren George from South Wales Police said: “This was a brutal and callous attack on a defenceless elderly man in his own home.

“The jury has found that Donne showed a complete disregard for Mr Williams’ life. His home was ransacked and he was tied up and badly beaten and in essence left for dead.

“Not an ounce of remorse was shown throughout the investigation or during the court proceedings.”

Members of Mr Williams’ family released a statement calling him a “generous and caring person”.

The statement said: “This tragedy has left his family devastated and we will never fully get over the loss of our brother and friend.”

Huw Rogers from the Crown Prosecution Service said: “John Williams was brutally attacked in his own home, receiving fatal injuries as a result of sustained violence.

“Donne denied that he was responsible, but evidence presented to the jury by the CPS led to him being convicted of robbery and murder.

“Our sympathies remain with the family and friends of John Williams for their loss.”