Life-term for killing young woman

A man has been jailed for life for beating a 19-year-old mother to death with a claw hammer.

Matthew John Robinson, 21, of no fixed address, appearing at Stafford Crown Court, admitted murder and was told he must serve at least 14 years.

Robinson had agreed to pay Samantha Bennett £20 for sex, but did not have the money, the court was told.

They argued and Ms Bennett, from Tunstall, Stoke-on-Trent, was attacked. She leaves a baby son.

'Horrific circumstances'

Ms Bennett, whose baby is now seven months old, was found dead in an alleyway in Blake Street, Burslem, Stoke-on Trent, following the attack on 19 March.

Robinson, formerly from Middleport in the city, had the claw hammer in his pocket so he could steal metal.

The 21-year-old, who had had a lot to drink, took Ms Bennett's purse following the attack, the court was told.

The victim's mother, Angela Bennett, said justice has been done, but added: "No life sentence can bring Sam back.

"All he gets is a roof over his head and three meals a day, pocket money and luxuries at the taxpayers' expense.

"No family should have to lose a child, especially in such horrific circumstances."

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