In 2016, the life of Natalie Hemming came to a tragic end at the hands of her partner, Paul Hemming. Natalie, a mother of three, vanished without a trace, sparking a widespread search that gripped the nation. However, what unfolded was a harrowing tale of abuse, violence, and ultimate betrayal.
Paul and Natalie Hemming shared a tumultuous relationship, marked by a decade of abuse inflicted upon Natalie. Despite not being married, Natalie had taken Paul’s surname. Their relationship, marred by control and jealousy, culminated in a horrific act of violence on May 1, 2016.
The Brutal Murder
On that fateful day, Paul Hemming viciously beat Natalie to death at their family home in Milton Keynes. Natalie had made the courageous decision to leave him, triggering his rage and jealousy. Their six-year-old son witnessed the brutal attack, adding another layer of horror to the tragedy.
After committing the murder, Hemming callously attempted to cover up his crime by fabricating a web of lies. He claimed Natalie had left the house while the children slept, but in reality, he had disposed of her body in a wooded area, miles away from their home. His deceit extended to falsely implicating another man in Natalie’s disappearance, further complicating the investigation.
The Search and Discovery
Natalie’s sudden disappearance prompted one of the largest police searches in Milton Keynes’ history. Three weeks later, her remains were discovered by a man mowing a meadow in a wooded area of south Hertfordshire. Despite the advanced state of decomposition, it was evident that Natalie had suffered multiple blows to the head with a yet unidentified weapon, leaving her with a fractured skull and a broken arm.
Paul Hemming’s Fate
In November 2016, Paul Hemming was convicted of Natalie’s murder. His sentencing revealed a chilling lack of remorse as he callously looked at Natalie’s family and mouthed, “I enjoyed every minute.” Judge Richard Foster, in delivering the sentence, highlighted Hemming’s history of control and violence, emphasizing his complete lack of remorse.
Paul Hemming received a life sentence, with a minimum term of 20 years before being eligible for parole. Despite pleading guilty to manslaughter during the trial, he denied the charge of murder, further underscoring the callousness of his actions.
Where Is Paul Hemming Now?
As of February 2024, Paul Hemming remains incarcerated, serving his sentence for the murder of Natalie Hemming. His imprisonment serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of seeking justice for victims like Natalie.
Conclusion
The case of Paul and Natalie Hemming is a sobering reminder of the horrors of domestic abuse and the devastating impact it can have on individuals and families. While justice has been served with Paul Hemming’s imprisonment, Natalie’s tragic story serves as a rallying cry for greater awareness and action against domestic violence in all its forms.