Police excavation work at murderer’s old home
Specialist police officers have begun excavation work at what is believed to be the former home of double murderer Christopher Halliwell.
The 53-year-old taxi driver, of Swindon, Wiltshire, murdered Becky Godden, 20, in January 2003 and Sian O’Callaghan, 22, in March 2011.
He was handed a rare life sentence – meaning he will never be released – at Bristol Crown Court last year after being convicted of Miss Godden’s murder.
Following his sentence, police said they were working with other forces and the National Crime Agency to identify potential further victims of Halliwell. Wiltshire Police started excavation work within the gardens of two properties in Swindon town centre yesterday.
Work at the addresses in Broad Street is expected to last for five days.
The intelligence-led activity is part of an ongoing investigation carried out by the Brunel Major Crime Investigation Team.
Detective Chief Inspector Jeremy Carter, who is leading the investigation, said: “Searches are being conducted in the gardens and garages of two properties in Broad Street over this coming week.
“Whilst we do not have plans, at this stage, to search inside the properties there will be some disruption to the occupants.
“I would like to make it clear that those living at the addresses have no involvement in the investigation and we thank them for their understanding and patience.
“Although we are unable to comment on the nature of our inquiries, we can say that we acting on intelligence received.”
Superintendent Charlie Armstrong added: “We understand that this activity may cause concern for the local community and residents can expect to see a police cordon in place within the alleyways in Broad Street for the next five days.
“This should not impact upon other local residents. Officers will continue to patrol the vicinity and will be available for anyone who has any concerns relating to the searches.”
Halliwell abducted office administrator Miss O’Callaghan as she walked home following a night-out in Swindon and dumped her body in Uffington, Oxfordshire.
He then confessed to killing another woman, a prostitute he had picked up from Swindon, had sex with and strangled in January 2003.