Man jailed for murdering ex-fiancé at luxury hotel in Surrey
The Crown Prosecution Service says James Cartwright launched a 'vicious and murderous attack' on Samantha Mickleburgh last April
Last updated 8th Aug 2025
A man who 'callously murdered' his ex fiancé in a Surrey hotel has been jailed for a minimum of 28 years.
Police say James Cartwright never admitted responsibility for killing Samantha Mickleburgh at Pennyhill Park Hotel in Bagshot last April.
She'd accompanied him to the hotel for his 60th birthday, as she had promised him she would and she believed he had nobody else to go with.
Samantha, who had ended the relationship and was looking to move on with her life after this final compassionate act, was instead raped and strangled by Cartwright in the early hours of 14 April.
Cartwright had a history of obsessive behaviour towards Samantha, and would sit outside the house for extended periods of time and bombard her with calls and messages.
During his trial at Guildford Crown Court last month, prosecutors said the 61-year-old from Axminster in Devon was leading a double life, and had been dancing at a ceilidh with his new girlfriend the night before he killed the 54-year-old, also from Devon.
Jurors also heard how Cartwright had a history of obsessive behaviour towards Samantha - who's been described as a 'beloved Daughter, Mother, Sister and friend.'
Police said he 'couldn’t bear to let her go'... despite having another girlfriend at the time.
Cartwright - who called 999 himself on the night last April claiming she'd had a fall - was found guilty of rape and murder last month.
Throughout the investigation and trial, Cartwright maintained his innocence, despite not providing any other explanation for Samantha’s fatal injuries.
Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Debbie Birch said; “Firstly, I would like to say that our thoughts and condolences remain with Samantha’s friends and family at this extremely difficult time.
“Through our extensive investigation into her death, we got to know the Samantha’s character well and what stood out was the overwhelming sense from her loved ones that she was an extremely kind, thoughtful and compassionate person. She had felt guilty about ending her relationship with Cartwright and she had always followed through on her promises - this trip was meant to be one last kindness before she moved on with her life.
“Tragically, Cartwright ensured that she was never able to do this. His control and possessiveness meant he couldn’t bear to let her go, despite having another girlfriend at the time. He callously murdered her and has never admitted responsibility or shown any remorse, but the jury saw him for what he is and has found him guilty.”
Samantha's family also previously released a statement paying tribute:
“We as a family, are relieved that this has finally come to an end. That the defendant has been seen for who he truly is, a rapist and a murderer. No longer free to harm or control any more women.
“Unfortunately, it was too late for our beloved Daughter, Mother, Sister and friend. She truly was the best of us, the kindest light in all our lives and the hole left behind is one of such severe magnitude we will likely never escape it. Justice will not bring her back, but it has provided a form of closure on this dark chapter and security in the knowledge that James Cartwright will remain in the safest place for everyone.
“Samantha wouldn’t want to be known as a victim. She would want to be known for her passion for life, her class and beautiful style, her honesty, integrity, strength and dedication to all who knew her.
“We continue to ask for privacy as we navigate what it means to live in a world without Samantha and her incredible personality and love.”
Cartwright was found not guilty of a third charge of controlling and coercive behaviour.