A “MASTER MANIPULATOR” has been convicted of murdering his fiancée after her body was found in an overflowing bath.
Clifford Cowen, 59, told a 999 dispatcher he had concerns for 70-year-old partner Rita Fleming – claiming he’d spotted her feet sticking out the end of her bed after peering through the letterbox.
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However, when cops arrived at the property in Golborne Road in Kensal Town, west London, on June 23 last year they found her fully clothed in a nightdress in the bath, having suffered multiple injuries.
Officers at the scene became suspicious of Cowen as he repeatedly told them to check CCTV to prove he hadn’t been at Rita’s address – and he was arrested.
In interview, Cowen tried to claim that he was in a loving relationship with Rita, however officers found multiple messages and voice notes indicating that he would regularly get drunk and verbally abuse her.
He was charged with murder on July 5 2024 and following a four-week trial at the Old Bailey he was found guilty on Thursday.
The killer will appear at Kingston Crown Court on September 1 for sentencing.
DCI Alison Foxwell said: “As our investigation into Rita’s death developed, it became clear that Clifford Cowen was a controlling and abusive partner.
“Clifford called 999 that day and attempted to make Rita’s death look like an accident, as though she had drowned in the bath.
“Thanks to the information given by key witnesses and the work of our Specialist Crime Team, we have been able to show the court what a cowardly individual Cowen is.
“Cowen is a master manipulator who tried to portray his relationship with Rita as a loving one.
“He attempted to cover up his actions with an elaborate alibi, however officers were able to unpick this along with evidence of his controlling and manipulative behaviour.
“Rita was much loved by her family and friends and I hope that Cowen’s conviction gives them an element of closure.
“We understand how isolated victims of domestic abuse can feel.
“We encourage anyone to contact police and report so we can support alongside our specialist partner agencies.”
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