Head teacher who murdered wife and lover ‘abused her for years’
A HEAD teacher who killed his estranged wife and her new lover just days after learning of their relationship was a “cowardly bully” who subjected her to years of abuse, it can be revealed.
Rhys Hancock, 40, stabbed Helen Almey, 39, and Martin Griffiths, 48, af- ter confronting the couple in the early hours of New Year’s Day.
The former head of a special school, Hancock found out about the relationship on Boxing Day and swore revenge on the mother of his three children.
Police were called to the former mar- ital home in the village of Duffield, Derbyshire, during the Christmas holidays, amid claims that Hancock had threatened Ms Almey and had been abusive.
In the early hours of New Year’s Day, Hancock left his mother’s house some 10 miles away and drove to confront his estranged wife. His mother called the police at 4.11am warning them that he was armed with two knives. Police called Ms Almey’s phone but it went to voicemail and at 4.26am Hancock dialled 999 to say he had murdered Ms Almey and Mr Griffiths. Yesterday, he admitted both murders. He will be sentenced at a later date.
Friends said Hancock had subjected Ms Almey to years of domestic abuse.
The couple split early last year and she was said to be excited about moving on with her life. One friend said: “Rhys came across as this caring type, who dedicated his life to kids with special needs, but the reality was very different. He was a bully and a coward.”
Ms Almey, a PE teacher, and Mr Griffiths, a company director, were found in a pool of blood at the property.
Her friend, who asked not to be named, said: “Rhys was a coward and she suffered at his hands. I can’t say I’m shocked. It’s tragic, but it’s been on the cards for a long time.
“Helen tried many times to make a life without him, but she always forgave him. Then last year she finally plucked up the courage to kick him out for good, he didn’t take it well. About six months later she started seeing this guy, she was getting her life together.”
At the opening of inquests into their deaths Chesterfield coroners’ court was told such was the force of the blows that the murder weapon – blade and handle – was lodged in Helen’s body when paramedics found her.
They battled in vain to save her for 15 minutes. Mr Griffiths, a father of two, was pronounced dead at the scene.