Two Sheffield women found guilty of murder and robbery after attacking a 60-year-old man in his own home
It happened in August 2023
Two women from Sheffield have been found guilty of murder and robbery after attacking a 60-year-old man in his own home and leaving him to die.
It happened on 9th August 2023.
During a three week trial the court heard 45-year-old Nicola Lethbridge and Zoe Rider aged 36 both of Fraser Driver entered the home of Stephen Koszyczarski taking his personal items and attacking him.
The pair were neighbours of his.
On 9th August, the pair physically abused Stephen in his own home, recording their actions on a mobile phone. Stephen used a call line installed in his home to call for help.
During the call, Stephen asked for an ambulance, and a recording of the line played in court also identified Rider asking him for his property, while he lay dying
Both Lethbridge and Rider were both found guilty of murder and robbery by a jury in just one hour at Sheffield Crown Court.
A detective on the case called his death 'callous'
The pair will be sentenced on June 5th.
Detective Chief Inspector Tom Woodward, leading the investigation said:
“Stephen was described as a quiet man. Although he had a close circle of friends, he kept himself to himself and just went about his business. He didn’t cause any problems or hurt anyone and his death was callous.
“Lethbridge and Rider had not only subjected Stephen to mental torture and physical abuse but they humiliated him during the attack wrongly accusing him of being a paedophile which was simply not the case.
“I am pleased with the jury’s verdict and the fact that these two will now spend a significant amount of years in prison.
“The community has been a huge support throughout our investigation, and I would like to thank those who showed bravery, taking a stand against criminals living in their communities, and providing witness statements and evidence.
“The support of the public, along with the hardworking officers on my team and police colleagues have ensured justice for Stephen.
“Although the guilty verdicts bring comfort that justice has been served, this remains a sad day because it is another reminder for everyone how violence can quickly end a life too soon, which impacts greatly on all those involved, and leaves family and friends with pain and holes in their lives.”