Sentence Extended for Man Convicted of Brutally Murdering Ex-Partner in Her Home

Robert Richens, a 35-year-old resident of Luther Street in Oxford, has had his prison sentence extended by three years and five months following a referral of his case to the Court of Appeal by Attorney General Ellie Reeves KC MP, under the Unduly Lenient Sentence scheme.

The court was informed that Rachael Vaughan was fatally assaulted by Richens after enduring a lengthy period of controlling and abusive behaviour. This tragic event took place on 29 May 2025, at Rachael’s home in Abingdon, where neighbours reported hearing screams during the assault.

Rachael suffered multiple severe injuries as a result of the sustained attack. Following her death, Richens remained at the scene for several hours, attempting to clean up evidence before leaving, only to return later to call the authorities.

Government Response to Domestic Violence

The Attorney General, Ellie Reeves KC MP, expressed her condemnation of Richens’ actions, stating:

“Robert Richens brutally murdered Rachael Vaughan in her own home, the place where she should have been safest. Rachael was subjected to relentlessly controlling and abusive behaviour. I welcome the Court of Appeal’s decision to increase Richens’ sentence. Domestic murder destroys lives and sentences must reflect the horror of such crimes.”

On 6 February 2026, Richens was sentenced to life imprisonment by Oxford Crown Court, with a minimum term of 16 years and 1 month, after pleading guilty to the charge of murder.

Increased Sentencing Reflects Severity of Crime

On Thursday, 23 July 2026, the Court of Appeal decided to increase Richens’ minimum term to 19 years and 6 months, underscoring the gravity of the crime and the impact of domestic violence on victims and their families. This decision highlights the legal system’s commitment to addressing heinous acts of domestic abuse and ensuring that justice is served for the victims of such crimes.