A Pontypool man has been sentenced to life in prison for the murder of his estranged wife.

David Maggs, 71, of Sebastopol appeared at Cardiff Crown Court on Thursday 17 March for his sentencing hearing a jury found him guilty of murder in January.

He murdered his wife Linda Minahan, 74, at their home in Lansdowne, Sebastopol, on Saturday 6 February 2021.

The family of Linda Minahan have issued this statement following sentencing:

“On behalf of all our family, we would like to personally thank all of the Gwent Police officers that have been involved with the investigation.

“Also a special thanks to the prosecution team; especially Mike Jones QC, Dean Pulling and the Crown Prosecution Service.

“We would also like to thank all the witnesses that gave evidence in court and the members of the jury for returning a guilty verdict.

“Without all your hard work, dedication, support and understanding we may never have got justice for our lovely mum.

You have all gone above and beyond and have helped us through what has been the worst time of our lives, from that knock on our door on the morning of Saturday 6 February up until today.

“We will never ever be able to thank you all enough.”

Detective Chief Inspector Laura Bartley, the deputy senior investigation officer, said:

“Our thoughts are very much with the family and friends of Linda Minahan who have lost a much-loved mother, nan and friend.

“I would like to pay tribute to the family for the incredible courage and dignity they have shown throughout this undoubtedly painful legal process.

“Our priority throughout this investigation was seeking justice for Linda and her family.

“We know this sentencing will never bring Linda back, however we hope this outcome brings some comfort to all that knew and loved her.

“This was a deeply distressing incident which ended in tragedy.

“It is very likely that David Maggs, because of his callous actions, will spend his remaining days behind bars serving his prison sentence.”

He will serve a minimum term of 20 years in prison.