Killer's Disturbing Priorities Revealed After Brutal Murder
In a case that has shocked the nation, a convicted murderer expressed more concern about missing a popular video game than the life he had taken. Robert Richens, a 35-year-old man from Oxford, was sentenced this week to a minimum term of 16 years and one month for the murder of his ex-girlfriend, Rachael Vaughan.
A Chilling 999 Call and Arrest
The harrowing sequence of events began with a 999 call made by Richens on May 30 last year, where he told the operator, "You're not going to believe this. I think I accidentally killed someone." During the call, he broke down in tears, stating, "I am being honest because I am ashamed of what I have done." Police swiftly responded to the address in Oxford, where they discovered the body of 40-year-old Rachael Vaughan inside the property. Despite the urgent efforts of emergency services, she was tragically pronounced dead at the scene.
Arrest Footage Shows Bizarre Remarks
Footage from Thames Valley Police captures the moments following Richens' arrest. As he was being taken to the police station, he was heard sobbing, "I'm going to miss GTA and that." When an officer inquired which version of the Grand Theft Auto game he meant, Richens specified GTA 6. The officer responded that he had "ages" to wait, as the game is not scheduled for release until November. Richens then wailed, "Ah, I am going to get life," displaying a stark awareness of the consequences he faced.
Legal Proceedings and Sentencing
Richens was charged on the same day as his arrest and pleaded guilty to one count of murder at a hearing in December last year. At Oxford Crown Court this week, the judge imposed a sentence that ensures he will serve at least 16 years and one month before being considered for parole. Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Stuart May commented on the case, stating, "My thoughts remain with Rachael Vaughan’s family and with everyone who loved her as they continue to face what is an unimaginable loss. Rachael was taken from them in the very place she should have felt safest – her own home."
Condemnation of Heartless Actions
DCI May further condemned Richens' behavior, noting, "Robert Richens' actions were heartless. He left Rachael alone in her house, made no attempt to help her or seek medical attention and he only contacted police when he had nowhere else to turn. Today's sentence means that Richens will now face the consequences of his merciless actions." The case has highlighted not only the brutality of the crime but also the disturbing disconnect shown by the perpetrator in the immediate aftermath.
