Following an investigation by Thames Valley Police’s Major Crime Unit, a man has been jailed for murder. 

Robert Richens, aged 35, of Luther Street, Oxford, has today (6/2) been sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 16 years and one month at a hearing at Oxford Crown Court. 

Richens pleaded guilty to one count of murder, at a previous hearing on 12 December 2025, at the same court.  

At around 6.26am on 30 May last year, Richens called the force, from his home, to say he had killed a woman. 

Officers attended the scene and commenced lifesaving attempts with South Central Ambulance Service but sadly, the victim – Rachael Vaughan, aged 40, from Abingdon – was declared deceased at the scene. 

Officers attended Richens’ home and he was arrested on the same day and charged the day after (31/5). 

Senior investigating officer Detective Chief Inspector Stuart May, of the Major Crime Unit, said: “My thoughts remain with Rachael Vaughan’s family and with everyone who loved her as they continue to face what is an unimaginable loss. 

“Rachael was taken from them in the very place she should have felt safest — her own home.                                                                                                                                                 

“Robert Richens’ actions were heartless. He left Rachael alone in her house, made no attempt to help her or seek medical attention and he only contacted police when he had nowhere else to turn. 

“Today’s sentence means that Richens will now face the consequences of his merciless actions.”