Steffon Hewitt, a resident of Blake’s Road in Peckham, has been sentenced to a minimum of 21 years’ imprisonment for the murder of his mother, 68-year-old Vanita Nowell.

The 51-year-old Hewitt was found guilty of inflicting fatal injuries on his mother, resulting in her death from a “traumatic” brain injury. The sentencing, which took place on April 16, marks the culmination of a harrowing case that shocked the community.

The tragic incident unfolded on March 8, 2020, when emergency services received a distress call from Hewitt, reporting that he had discovered his mother unresponsive on the bathroom floor. Despite the prompt arrival of paramedics, Vanita was pronounced dead at the scene.

Initially, Hewitt claimed to have attempted CPR on his mother, suggesting that she may have sustained injuries, including broken ribs, during the process. However, subsequent medical examinations revealed the extent of Vanita’s injuries, which far exceeded those that could be attributed to CPR.

Forensic and medical investigations uncovered a disturbing reality: Vanita had suffered 28 fresh rib fractures, six fractures of her spine, and extensive bruising across her body. These injuries, coupled with the traumatic brain injury, painted a picture of a vicious and sustained assault.

Detective Constable Nick Stocking, who played a pivotal role in the murder investigation, expressed the severity of the crime, stating: “Hewitt showed no remorse when killing his mother by inflicting significant and extensive injuries, resulting in what would have been a painful death.

Stocking emphasized the cruelty of Hewitt’s actions, highlighting the deliberate attempt to shift blame onto his mother’s dementia-related falls. However, the weight of forensic evidence dispelled this narrative, ultimately leading to Hewitt’s conviction and sentencing.

The sentencing serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of domestic violence and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions. As the community grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, efforts to raise awareness of domestic abuse and provide support to vulnerable individuals remain paramount.