JONATHAN DONNE SENTENCED TO LIFE IN PRISON FOR MURDERING SWANSEA PENSIONER

Jonathan Donne sentenced to life in prison

Jonathan Donne, 42, from Townhill, was sentenced to life in prison (October 1) for the murder and robbery of John Williams earlier this year.

Earlier this week, Donne was convicted of the offences following a trial at Swansea Crown Court.

At a sentencing hearing today, he was sentenced to life in prison for the murder with the judge ordering a minimum sentence of 31 years. He was also sentenced to 15 years for robbery to run concurrently with the murder sentence.

Mr Williams, aged 67, who was known to friends and family as Jack, was found dead at his home in Bonymaen, Swansea on March 31st.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Chief Inspector Darren George from South Wales Police’s Major Crime Team said:

“This was a brutal and callous attack on a defenceless elderly man in his own home.

“The jury has found that Donne showed a complete disregard for Jack Williams’ life. His home was ransacked and he was tied up and badly beaten and in essence left for dead.

“Not an ounce of remorse was shown throughout the investigation or during the court proceedings.

“After a lengthy and emotional trial I am pleased the jury has found Donne guilty of murder and robbery.

“I hope the conviction and significant sentence can in some way bring closure to Mr Williams’ family and friends, who have had to endure the daily ordeal of sitting through the trial whilst grieving for their loved one, they have done so with great dignity.”

John Williams’ family has issued the following statement:

“We would like to thank South Wales Police and the Crown Prosecution Service for all their hard work in securing this conviction. We would also like to thank the Victim Support Service, friends and colleagues for all their support and understanding over the last six months.

“Jack was a generous and caring person who will be dearly missed by everybody who knew him. He had worked hard all his adult life and passed his knowledge and skills on to many apprentices and work colleagues.

“This tragedy has left his family devastated and we will never fully get over the loss of our brother and friend.

“Finally, the family would like to say a big thank you to our family liaison officer Emma Warner-Brindley for the help and understanding and guidance she has given to us since the very beginning of this tragic event.”