The killer of a lonely-heart Internet date – who drained his hardworking victim’s bank account of cash after dumping her body in a suitcase – has been caged for life with a 30-year minimum.
Callous IT specialist Clinton Kennard Bailey, 36, of Malpas Road, Lewisham, South-East London placed a personal ad on website Gumtree – answered by Philippines-born care nurse Leah Questin, 37.
He was convicted at the Old Bailey of murdering Leah – whose decomposed body was found in The Old Pond, Buckland Road, Cliffe, Rochester, Kent on September 24, last year.
Detective Chief Inspector Jacqueline Sebire of the Metropolitan Police’s Homicide and Serious Crime Command said: “Leah died at the hands of Clinton Bailey who, during their short relationship, deceived her and took advantage of her generosity.
“Following her death, Bailey emptied out Leah's bank account of the money she had worked incredibly hard to save.
“He has throughout the investigation lied and denied ever murdering Leah, showing no remorse for his actions.
“There is no excuse or explanation for Clinton Bailey's actions. I would like to send my respects and thanks to Leah's friends and family for the support and courage that they have shown throughout the trial and investigation.”
Leah came to the UK in 2008 to fund her education in health care.
She had a small circle of friends and colleagues, so used the Internet as a way of meeting people and in mid-August last year she responded to an advert posted by Bailey.
The pair met and then formed what the prosecution believe she hoped was the beginning of a romantic relationship.
During this brief four-week period, Bailey persuaded Leah to devote her time and attention to him, with Leah even lending him money whenever he asked for it.
Officers discovered Bailey made a series of cash machine withdrawals from Leah's savings account after he killed her, completely draining her savings.
He also kept her mobile phone following her death and continued to send text messages to close friends and on occasions himself, in an attempt to suggest she was still alive.
Bailey had also kept and used Leah's Oyster Travelcard during this time.
The suitcase and padlock in which Leah's body was discovered in was purchased by a man matching Bailey's appearance, at the Elephant and Castle Shopping Centre.
The exact cause of Leah's death was impossible to determine.
Natasha Lazovic, regional manager for Four Seasons Health Care Home, The Lansdowne Care Home, Cricklewood, North-West London where Leah worked said: "Leah's death was a tragedy.
"She was a dedicated and caring person who was extremely well liked by her colleagues and the residents who she looked after. She is sadly missed."
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