Man Gets Life Sentence for Murder in Easterton

What Happened

Raymond Groves, 48, from Hartcliffe, Bristol, died following an attack at an address in Strawberry Fields, Easterton, on July 2, 2024. He was invited to the location by Helen Shakespeare, 55, and Letishia Goodwin, 31, both residents of Strawberry Fields. Upon arrival, he was met at the front door by Shakespeare, with Antony Hiller, 35, waiting inside. Inside the property, Raymond was subjected to a sustained attack during which he was stabbed multiple times. Emergency services attended the scene, but tragically, Raymond was pronounced dead at the address.

How the Investigation Unfolded

The investigation, carried out by the Major Crime Investigation Team, involved extensive CCTV and mobile phone enquiries. These efforts established that Hillier had been at the address when Raymond arrived, and that the plan to cause harm to Raymond had been in the planning between the group for months. Goodwin was brought back to the house by Hillier prior to police and ambulance attendance. She called 999 to report a male had been found dead at her home.

Court Outcome or Current Status

Following an 11-week trial back in May, Antony Hiller was found guilty of murder and was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 26 years. Helen Shakespeare was found guilty of manslaughter but not guilty of murder and was sentenced to five years imprisonment. Letishia Goodwin was found guilty of participating in the murder and was given a hospital order. The trial was heard at Salisbury Crown Court in the absence of Goodwin, who was deemed unfit to stand trial.

Why This Matters Locally

Raymond’s death was the result of a brutal and sustained attack, and today’s verdicts reflect the gravity of the actions taken by those responsible. The case highlights the importance of community safety and the need for thorough investigations into violent crimes. The investigation, which spanned many months, required painstaking work to untangle conflicting accounts and a web of relationships. The case also underscores the significance of mobile phone and CCTV evidence in modern criminal investigations.

Public Interest and Community Impact

The incident has raised concerns about the safety of residents in Strawberry Fields, Easterton, and the broader implications of premeditated violence. Local authorities have expressed their commitment to ensuring that such crimes are thoroughly investigated and that justice is served. The case has also prompted discussions about the role of social media and digital communication in facilitating criminal activity, as the planning for the attack was evident through messages exchanged on mobile phones in the days and weeks leading up to the incident.

Official Statements and Acknowledgements

James Purcell, from the Major Crime Investigation Team, stated that the investigation was complex and demanding, with conflicting accounts and a fast-moving, violent incident. He emphasized the team’s dedication to uncovering the truth behind Raymond’s final moments. Detective Chief Inspector Deb Hatch also acknowledged the gravity of the crime, noting that the verdicts reflect the seriousness of the actions taken by the individuals involved. She also paid tribute to the families of the victims and the officers involved in the investigation, highlighting the emotional toll of such cases.

Source and Verification

The information provided is sourced from the Wiltshire Police website, specifically the news article titled 'Man Given Life Sentence for Murder of Man in Easterton' published on July 2, 2026. The details of the case, including the charges, convictions, and sentences, are attributed to the Major Crime Investigation Team and the statements made by James Purcell and Detective Chief Inspector Deb Hatch. The chronology of events, including the date of the incident, the trial, and the sentencing, is verified through the official police report and the published news article.