Man jailed for 21 years for strangling mother in Farnborough

Adam Watson, 37, was sentenced to 21 years in prison for the murder of Samantha Holden, a 57-year-old sex worker, in her Farnborough home on September 9, 2022. Following a confrontation in her bedroom, Watson intentionally suffocated Holden, leaving her partially clothed body for her 18-year-old son, Tom, to discover. The court highlighted the emotional trauma inflicted on Tom and his sister, Rebecca Elliott, who expressed the profound pain of losing their mother in such a horrific manner. The judge, Her Honour Judge Angela Morris, described Watson as a 'highly dangerous individual,' particularly towards vulnerable women. The attack was characterized as unplanned and brutal, with no sophistication involved. Watson had previously arranged a meeting with Holden, and the court noted that he had behaved respectfully towards her before the incident escalated. After the murder, Watson fled to Belgium, attempting to evade justice while leaving behind a devastated family. His DNA was later found on Holden's body, confirming his involvement in the crime. The prosecution emphasized the callousness of Watson's actions, as he stole Holden's phone after the murder, further demonstrating his disregard for her life and the impact on her family. In delivering the sentence, Judge Morris acknowledged the bravery of Holden's family in facing their loss and expressed hope that the verdict would provide them with some sense of justice and comfort as they navigate their grief.