Full Breakdown
Robert Rhodes Convicted of Murdering His Wife After Child's Testimony
12/13/2025, 10:57:13 AM
Overview of the Case
Robert Rhodes, 52, has been found guilty of murdering his wife, Dawn Rhodes, in a retrial at Inner London Crown Court, nearly eight years after he was acquitted of the same charge. The conviction was largely based on new evidence provided by their child, who revealed details of a coercive plot orchestrated by Rhodes to kill Dawn. The murder occurred on June 2, 2016, at their home in Redhill, Surrey.
The Crime and Initial Acquittal
In the original trial in 2017, Rhodes claimed he acted in self-defense, asserting that Dawn attacked him with a knife. The jury accepted his defense, leading to his acquittal. However, the case was reopened after the child disclosed during therapy in 2021 that Rhodes had manipulated them into participating in the murder plot. This revelation prompted a retrial under the double jeopardy law, which allows for retrials in serious cases when new evidence emerges.
Details of the Murder
The retrial revealed a disturbing narrative. Prosecutors presented evidence that Rhodes had planned the murder after discovering Dawn's affair with a colleague on Christmas Eve 2015. In the days leading up to the murder, he instructed their child to distract Dawn by asking her to close her eyes for a surprise. While the child left the room, Rhodes fatally stabbed Dawn in the neck. Following the attack, he coerced the child into helping him fabricate a story that portrayed him as the victim of an assault.
Child's Testimony and Impact
The child, who cannot be named for legal reasons, testified that they were manipulated by Rhodes into lying about the events surrounding the murder. They were instructed to inflict minor injuries on themselves and Rhodes to support his self-defense claim. This testimony was pivotal in the retrial, as it contradicted Rhodes' previous assertions and painted a clearer picture of the coercive control he exerted over both the child and Dawn.
Official Statements and Responses
Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey of Surrey Police described Rhodes' actions as "malevolent" and "evil," highlighting the psychological manipulation involved. Libby Clark from the Crown Prosecution Service noted the bravery of the child in coming forward, stating, "Dawn can now be remembered by everyone in the right way – as a victim of her violent partner." Following the verdict, Dawn's family expressed their grief and relief, emphasizing that while justice could not bring her back, it allowed her voice to be heard.
Criticism and Opposition
Despite the conviction, some critics argue that the legal system's handling of domestic violence cases remains flawed. Clarrie O’Callaghan, co-founder of the Femicide Census, remarked that the case highlights the need for better support systems for victims of domestic abuse. Dawn's family echoed this sentiment, urging for increased awareness and resources for those in similar situations.
What's Next
Robert Rhodes is scheduled to be sentenced on January 16, 2026. The case has raised significant discussions about domestic violence, coercive control, and the legal protections available for victims, particularly in light of the new evidence that led to his retrial.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Dawn Rhodes was a victim of murder and the child is a victim who was groomed and manipulated to do the things they have told us that they did.” — Detective Chief Inspector Kimball Edey
- “Kirsty added: "There cannot be justice for Dawn because she is dead.” — Kirsty Spencer, Dawn's sister
This case serves as a stark reminder of the complexities surrounding domestic violence and the importance of listening to victims and their families.
