Thaxted murderer Kevin Horswill given life sentence

Kevin Horswill, 51, of Magdalen Green in the village, murdered 52-year-old Richard Langley after an altercation at The Star pub on March 17, 2024.

The jury heard details of the case assembled by Essex Police, explaining how an argument broke out between the defendant and the victim shortly before the fatal attack.

CCTV then showed them both moving separately through the village to Richard's garden in Orchard Close.

Essex Police at the scene of the murder (Image: Essex Police) Horswill then left the scene minutes later with serious head injuries. Members of the public who heard the assault came to assist with CPR while paramedics rushed to help Richard.

Following a two-week trial, Horswill was convicted of murder at Chelmsford Crown Court on Tuesday, January 28.

He was sentenced today (Wednesday, January 29) by Her Honour Judge Mary Loram.

Speaking to Horswill, HHJ Loram said: "Following the argument you left after him and had the option to just go home.

"The threat to you was gone. But while walking home you turned back and went to Mr Langley’s.

"You followed him home to confront him and vent your anger – violence was inevitable.

"This was not an explosion of violence in the heat of the moment; you chose to do that.

"This was a determined assault to a man you had taken by surprise.

"I am satisfied that you left Mr Langley dying, and that you left his wife to find him.

"There can be no doubt about the impact this has had on Richard’s family."

Horswill had tried to deny he instigated the assault at his trial at Chelmsford Crown Court, but the jury refused to believe he acted in self-defence.

Speaking following the sentencing, Detective Superintendent Ant Alcock said: "Today was about securing justice for Richard Langley.

"My thoughts and condolences remain with Richard’s loved ones as they have done throughout this investigation and court case.

"We agree fully with the HHJ Loram’s assessment of this assault, and of Horswill.

"It has taken an incredible amount of work from officers and detectives to build this case, and I‘d like to thank them all for playing a part in securing the sentence that was handed down today.

"It was just minutes after Richard had left the pub that Horswill arrived at his address and fatally attack him, which made it so important we detailed the actions and movements of everyone involved in this timeframe.

"Horswill now has a life sentence in prison to consider his actions on the night in question."