A 70-year-old woman has been found guilty of murdering her sister in a north London flat before taking her diamond-encrusted Rolex watch, following a trial at the Old Bailey. Nancy Pexton was convicted of killing her 69-year-old sister, Jennifer Abbott, at her home in Camden on June 10 last year, as reported by The Guardian.
Victim Found Days After the Attack
The court heard that Abbott, a film director and US citizen, was last seen alive returning to her flat after walking her dog. Later that day, Pexton travelled to the property, staying for around an hour before leaving. Abbott's body was discovered three days later after concerns were raised by a neighbour. She was found on the living room floor with severe injuries, including a deep wound to her neck.
The Rolex Watch Was Taken After the Killing
A gold Rolex watch, described as a sentimental gift from Abbott's son, was missing from the scene. It was later recovered from Pexton's bag when police visited her in hospital. When questioned, Pexton claimed she had been given the watch to "look after," according to The Guardian.
Evidence of Prior Tension Revealed
During the trial, jurors heard evidence of strained relations between the sisters. Messages and notes recovered from Pexton's phone revealed hostility and references to harming her sister. Jennifer Abbott's son was quoted as saying by The Guardian that there had been "resentment seemingly bubbling up" between the two.
Verdict and Next Steps
Pexton denied the charge and did not give evidence during the trial. She appeared via video link from prison throughout proceedings. Following the guilty verdict, sentencing has been scheduled for a later date, with the case concluding at the Old Bailey.
