35-year-old Robert Richens was sentenced to life in prison for the "merciless" m*rder of his ex-partner, Rachael Vaughan. While the crime itself was horrific, the case has gained worldwide attention for Richens’ bizarre and detached reaction during his arrest.
**The Crime and Sentencing
The fatal attack occurred on May 30, 2025, in Vaughan's home in Abingdon, Oxfordshire. Richens called the police himself to report that he had "accidentally k*lled someone," though investigators later described the assault as a brutal and prolonged act of violence.
- The Sentence: Richens was handed a life sentence at Oxford Crown Court and must serve a minimum of 16 years and one month before becoming eligible for parole.
- The Victim: Rachael Vaughan, 40, was described by her family as a "heartbreaking loss." Prosecutors noted that Richens made no effort to help her or seek medical attention after the attack.
The "GTA 6" Controversy
Following his sentencing, police released body-worn camera footage that captured Richens’ behavior in the back of a patrol car immediately following his arrest.
Instead of showing remorse for Vaughan, Richens began to sob hysterically about personal inconveniences. In the video, he can be heard crying, "I’m going to miss GTA and that," referring to the highly anticipated video game Grand Theft Auto VI.
When a confused officer asked which game he meant, Richens clarified it was the upcoming Rockstar Games release. The officer informed him that the game was still months away, to which Richens replied in a moment of sudden realization: "Oh, I’m going to get life."
Public and Legal Reaction
The footage has sparked widespread outrage online, with many calling Richens "heartless" and "detached from reality." Detective Chief Inspector Stuart May, the senior investigating officer, remarked that Richens' actions were entirely self-centered and that he only contacted the police when he had "nowhere else to turn."
Vaughan’s family continues to be supported by specialist officers as they navigate what they described as an "unimaginable loss."
Transparency notes
Published: Feb 10, 2026. No major post-publication update has been logged.
Spot an error or missing context? Email hi@kindjoe.com and we will review and correct if needed.
Sources
External source links were not provided in this article body. Our editors reference publicly available materials and update stories as new verified information arrives.
What's your take on this story?
Vote before the outcome is known and compare your call with the crowd.
No community take has been linked to this story yet.