A significant verdict was reached on November 3, 2023, as Derek Martin was found guilty of murdering Chloe Bashford and her husband Josh Bashford at their home in Newhaven, East Sussex. This disturbing incident took place in June 2023, shocking the local community and drawing widespread media attention.
The 67-year-old Martin, who had previously been married to Chloe’s mother, claimed during police questioning that a dispute over money led to a violent outburst. He admitted to striking Chloe, aged 30, with a hammer before fatally stabbing her. When Josh, 33, returned home shortly after the attack, he confronted Martin, who then pursued him upstairs and continued the assault by stabbing and strangling him.
After committing the murders, Martin changed his clothing and picked up the couple’s four children from school. He took them to local establishments, including Costa and McDonald’s, while attempting to cover up his actions. CCTV footage captured Martin during this outing, which included disposing of Chloe’s mobile phone in nearby bushes.
In a chilling attempt to mislead the children, he told them their parents were involved in an argument and removed door handles from their home to prevent them from discovering the bodies. After returning the children to their grandmother’s house in Brighton, he bought alcohol and was later seen drinking by the seafront.
Martin eventually turned himself into the police, confessing, “I’ve killed two people.” Officers responded to the Bashford family home and discovered the bodies of Chloe and Josh. Following his arrest, Martin claimed diminished responsibility due to a depressive disorder, but this defense was rejected by the jury at Lewes Crown Court after a three-week trial.
Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey from the Surrey and Sussex Major Crime Team expressed gratitude to the Bashford family and the public for their support during the investigation. He acknowledged the profound loss experienced by the children and their families, stating, “I am in awe at the courage and strength they have all shown following the events of June 9, 2023.”
The prosecution, led by Marko Brooke from the Crown Prosecution Service, characterized Martin’s actions as premeditated. Brooke noted that Martin had taken steps to clean the crime scene and ensure the children were shielded from the horrific truth of their parents’ deaths. This case required extensive investigation, particularly regarding the psychiatric evaluations presented in court.
The jury ultimately convicted Martin of two counts of murder, and he has been remanded in custody. Sentencing is scheduled for November 6, 2023, where the court will determine the appropriate punishment for his crimes. The case has highlighted the immense impact of violent crime on families and communities, reinforcing the importance of justice for victims and their loved ones.
