Man jailed for life after murdering Birmingham woman in North Wales
David Redfern murdered Margaret Barnes after she mistook his home for her BnB
Last updated 31st Mar 2023
A man who murdered a pensioner who he found in his bed has been sentenced to life in jail, with a minimum term of 14 years.
David Redfern, aged 46, attacked 71-year-old Margaret Barnes at his home in Barmouth, North Wales after she mistook his home for her BnB.
During his trial at Caernarfon Crown Court, the court heard how Mrs Barnes, from Birmingham, had been visiting friends in Barmouth and had booked to stay in a local BnB last July. She had mistaken her BnB for the home of David Redfern a few doors down.
Michael Jones, prosecuting, described going into Mr Redfern's house as a ''mistake that ultimately cost her her life''.
Mr Redfern found Mrs Barnes asleep in his bed and dragged her downstairs by her ankles. He then kicked and stamped on Mrs Barnes, breaking several ribs.
The court heard how Mr Redfern failed to call an ambulance for Mrs Barnes. Neighbours then called for an ambulance where paramedics attended to her at the scene.
She died at the scene in the early hours of the 11th of July.
Redfern denied her murder when charged, and was later found guilty by jury at Caernarfon Crown Court.
He has now been sentenced to Life behind bars, with a minimum sentence of 14 years.