Forest Hill – husband sentenced to 32 years for wife’s murder

Investigators found evidence that Simmons had purchased cleaning products and replacement bedding “in an attempt to conceal his crime.”

Det Supt Matt Webb said: “This was a callous and brutal murder that was clearly premeditated. He drugged his wife before attacking her with a knife; there was no way for her to defend herself.

“The overwhelming evidence against him left Simmonds with no choice but to plead guilty.

“The impact of his actions that day will last a lifetime for Tia’s family and friends.”

Simmonds also pleaded guilty to two counts of rape in relation to a separate woman.

He was sentenced to twelve years in prison for each of these crimes.