Sarah Everard – Case Developments

In March 2021, the body of Sarah Everard was discovered and police officer Wayne Couzens was arrested for murder.

The events triggered numerous debates and outrage amongst advocates for women’s safety, with numerous vigils being held for Sarah across the country. One of which was attended by the Duchess of Cambridge.

As of 9^th July 2021, Couzens has pleaded guilty to both the kidnap, rape and murder of Sarah. He will be sentenced on the 29^th of September at the Old Bailey.

Since first hearing about Sarah’s case in March 2021, there has been more revealed about the circumstances of her death. Days before the murder, Couzens was reported to have hired a car and bought a roll of adhesive film. He then abducted Sarah and then immediately drove out of London to Tilmanstone.

After the attack, Couzens called into work sick and reported he no longer wished to carry a firearm due to stress. He was then spotted buying 2 large rubble bags from B&Q and a tarpaulin.

Despite clear pre-meditation and attempts to cover up his actions, when taken for police interview Couzens created an elaborate lie about the events.

He alleged he was in trouble with a gang of Eastern Europeans who were threatening him and his family. He then claimed this gang had demanded he deliver them a girl after he previously underpaid a prostitute. This, he claimed, was why he kidnapped Sarah and who he left her with.

A turning point in the investigation came when police discovered Couzens had bought a small patch of woodland in 2019. Phone data led police to the site and the dreadful discovery of Sarah’s hidden remains.

Although Couzens has admitted guilt for his actions, the CPS has still not established what led him to commit this atrocious attack. Couzen’s defence barrister meagrely stated that Couzens felt remorse and guilt for his actions and that he will bear the burden of them for the rest of his life, however the genuine truth of this is yet to be seen.

Regardless of any purported remorse, Sarah has been viciously taken from her family and friends and any potential future destroyed. Arguably any thought towards this case should be directed towards her and what she has lost, as those who knew her continue to mourn.

This cases raises important questions about what we are doing to protect women and how many more lives will be ruined by the acts of the few if more decisive action isn’t taken.

Should you or someone you know have been a victim of a sexual or violent attack, you may be eligible to claim for compensation via the Criminal Injuries Compensation Scheme (CICA). This government-funded scheme aims to compensate victims of violent crimes as a reflection of their trauma and tribulation at the hand of their perpetrators.

Further reading

More information about the CICA can be found here on our website.

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