Overview
- Sally Smithson, 61, pleaded guilty at Oxford Crown Court to preventing the lawful and decent burial of her partner, John Blackwell.
- Blackwell, 71, likely died of a heart attack around October 1; police found his body on October 21 with no signs of injury.
- Officers discovered him naked on the bedroom floor in advanced decomposition, the TV on and the bed slept in as Smithson remained in the room.
- Prosecutors said the relationship was turbulent, involving drunken arguments and domestic violence, with prior convictions against Blackwell attributed to Smithson.
- Neighbours and a cleaner grew suspicious after cancellations and messages sent from Blackwell’s phone, and Thames Valley Police later released Smithson’s image following sentencing.