Life Sentence for Murder and Arson
A man who killed his partner and then caused a fire leading to a gas canister explosion has been sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 23 years.
Clifton George, aged 45, attacked Annabel Rook, a mother of two, after she attempted to end their decade-long relationship.
He physically assaulted the 46-year-old by punching and attempting to strangle her before stabbing her 31 times. Rook was discovered deceased at their shared residence on Dumont Road in Stoke Newington, north London, during the early hours of 17 June 2025.
Trial and Conviction
George admitted to manslaughter and arson charges but denied murder, asserting that he lost control. Following a trial at Snaresbrook Crown Court, he was found guilty of murder.
Family Reactions
Rook's father, retired Old Bailey judge Peter Rook, described George as "utterly selfish," while her mother, Susanna Rook, characterized him as "a wicked, totally narcissistic, damaged person."
In a victim impact statement delivered in court, Susanna Rook, holding back tears, praised her daughter as "optimistic, inclusive, and full of fun."
"We know we will never be able to come to terms with her death, and life without her is painful and hard to bear,"
she said.
Ongoing Coverage
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