Clifford Cowen convicted of the murder of Rita Fleming

Clifford Cowen was convicted yesterday at Kingston Crown Court of the murder of 71 year old Rita Fleming.

Rita was found deceased at her Flat 23, 32 Golborne Rd. W10 5PN on the 23/06/2024. Cowen, had called police to say he was concerned about his ‘partner’, Rita, and could not gain access to her flat. Police eventually forced entry and found Rita fully clothed in a filled bath tub. She had been drowned but also had a number of other significant injuries including one to her head and some broken ribs. It was the prosecution case that Cowen had befriended Rita before murdering her in order to obtain her money.

Cowen will appear at Kingston Crown Court for sentencing on 1st September.

Rita was the victim of a controlling and abusive behaviour by Cowan but Cowan portrayed their relationship as loving. 

We understand how isolated victims of domestic abuse can feel. Please know that if you are in an abusive relationship you can report in person at Royalty Studios, Lancaster Road or call 101 or report online. We can support you alongside other specialist partner agencies.