A man who used to be a boxer and killed a retired postmistress by slitting her throat was caught on camera bragging about his nickname “The Shovel,” which was given due to his large hands.
David Newton, 70, believed he had gotten away with the murder of Una Crown, 86, in 2013 as initial investigations failed to identify the extent of her injuries. However, DNA evidence eventually linked Newton to the crime, leading to his conviction for the murder in February after a trial at Cambridge Crown Court.
The case involving Una’s murder is featured in an episode of Channel 4’s 24 Hours in Police Custody, showcasing the efforts of Detective Superintendent Iain Moor and his team in bringing closure and justice to Una’s family. Newton was captured on camera in a police cell after his arrest, nonchalantly stating he had told the truth about what he knew.
Despite the police’s initial oversight in recognizing Una’s death as suspicious, new forensic techniques uncovered male DNA under her fingernails, providing crucial evidence for the case. Detective Inspector Lee Martin expressed gratitude for Una possibly safeguarding that evidence for investigators.
Following thorough investigations that excluded male relatives in Newton’s paternal line, he was charged with Una’s murder in 2024. The jury deliberated for over 29 hours before returning a guilty verdict. Newton had unlawfully entered Una’s residence, where a violent altercation ensued, resulting in her death and theft of money.
Newton was sentenced to a minimum of 21 years in prison for the brutal attack on Una, with the judge condemning the ferocity of the crime. Detective Superintendent Moor acknowledged errors in the initial 2013 investigation, apologizing to Una’s family for any oversights.
The case hinged on DNA evidence, highlighting Newton’s suspicious behavior post-murder, including lavish spending, which contradicted his financial status. The story of Una’s tragic murder and the subsequent investigation will be showcased in an upcoming episode of 24 Hours in Police Custody on Channel 4.