Renewed appeal for information on Evesham murder victim
Jesse Richards, who was 40 at the time of his death, was killed in Cleeve Prior, Evesham, on 31 July 2009 in a sustained attack over a drugs debt.
Twelve years on from his death in 2009, detectives involved in the investigation to find Jesse Richards continue to urge anyone that knows where his body is to help bring his family some peace.
In 2012, five men were jailed in connection with his death and were collectively sentenced to more than 50 years in prison despite his body never being found.
Detectives believe the body was originally taken to Warwickshire where it was hidden.
Detective Inspector Mark Peters said: “A number of persons responsible for Jesse’s death were brought to justice however 12yrs on some of those are now being released from their custodial sentences, his family continue their sentence unable to find peace until he is found.
“With the discovery of any unexplained bodies, the family’s hopes are raised only to be dashed again. We remain determined to find Jesse and will consider and act upon information received as we did with searches in June of last year (2020) when sadly nothing of significance was found.
“We still believe that someone out there has information about where Jesse is,” continued Det Insp Peters.
“They may have families of their own and understand the absolute need to recover Jesse. It is still not too late to do the right thing and get in touch with us.”
A £10,000 reward is still available for information leading to the successful discovery of Jesse's body.
Over the years, Jesse's mother, Lucy Richards, has appealed for anyone with information to come forward and she has made a personal plea once again.
She said: "It is difficult enough coming to terms with Jesse’s murder and 12 years on there isn’t a day I don’t think about him. I’m not getting any younger and life is made so much harder not being able to lay him to rest. It is made much worse as I’m sure any mother or close family would understand by not being able to visit him on dates such as birthdays and significant family events and of course the anniversary of his death.
“Please, if anyone knows anything no matter how small it may seem, think about his family and get in touch with the police.”
Anyone with any information that could help the searches is urged to contact West Mercia Police on 101 and ask to speak to Det Sgt Gareth Evans. Or call him directly on 07977 068 033. DS Evans is keen to stress that any contact will remain confidential but there is obviously a benefit in being able to discuss the information.