Son, 40, admits to killing his own mum
A MAN has admitted killing his mum at her home.
Leroy Panton, 40, has pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility at Manchester Crown Court.
He was due to be sentenced at the same court yesterday (Friday), but the hearing was adjourned after it emerged his wing at Strangeways prison has been placed into lockdown because of a coronavirus outbreak.
Panton killed Hyacinth Morris, 67, who was pronounced dead at a house on Westminster Street, Levenshulme, on Thursday, May 7.
Police were first called to the house to reports of a concern for welfare. After her body was found, police issued an appeal and named Panton as someone who they were seeking in connection with the investigation.
Her loved ones paid tribute to her in a statement and said she was ‘a brilliant mother who was adored by [her] son.’ Panton, 40, also of Westminster Street, Levenshulme, was arrested, detained under the Mental Health Act and later charged with murder.
The murder charge has now been dropped after Panton admitted manslaughter by reason of diminished responsibility at a hearing at the court on February 8.
His QC Paul Reid said he had been informed the prison wing where his client was housed had been placed into lockdown. He said he had been told the lockdown may last as long as 28 days. Judge Field QC adjourned the hearing and Panton is now due to be sentenced on March 12.
Ms Morris’ family said in a statement: “Hyacinth, you were a great daughter to your father. A beautiful sister, a wonderful sister in law, auntie, great auntie and a dear cousin to all.
“Most of all you were a brilliant mother who was adored by your son.
“Rest in peace, until we see you again. Your loving family.”