Man found guilty of murdering ex-fiancée in luxury hotel
James Cartwright launched a "vicious and murderous attack" on his ex-fiancée
Last updated 31st Jul 2025
The Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said James Cartwright launched a "vicious and murderous attack" on his ex-fiancée after a jury found him guilty of her murder.
Moses Koroma, senior crown prosecutor for CPS South East, said: "It was clear from the forensic evidence that Samantha had been murdered. She was strangled and had a significant head injury, and the jury saw straight through Cartwright's claims that this had all resulted from her falling out of bed.
"As soon as he called 999, Cartwright started to weave his web of lies, telling police that Samantha had asked him to move back in and they were due to get married a few months later.
"A very different picture emerged of their relationship from conversations Samantha had with friends and family about their life behind closed doors.
"Worried that he would be alone for his 60th birthday, Samantha honoured her promise to spend the weekend with Cartwright.
"He took advantage of this last selfless act with a vicious and murderous attack."
James Cartwright, 61, has been found guilty of the murder and rape of his ex-fiancée Samantha Mickleburgh at a luxury hotel in Surrey in April last year.
A jury at Guildford Crown Court found Cartwright not guilty of controlling and coercive behaviour.
Samantha Mickleburgh was found dead at the Pennyhill Park Hotel in Bagshot on the morning of April 14 last year.