“Essex Woman Jailed for Life After Murdering Parents and Living with Bodies for Four Years”
A woman described as “manipulative” was sentenced to life imprisonment for murdering her parents and living with their bodies for four years in their home in Great Baddow, Essex. The remains of Lois and John McCullough, aged 71 and 70, were found in September 2023, wrapped in sleeping bags.
Virginia McCullough, 36, admitted to poisoning her father in June 2019 and constructing a “homemade mausoleum” for his body, while she fatally stabbed her mother. McCullough, who had run up large debts in her parents’ names, continued to spend their pensions after their deaths. During her arrest, she remarked, “Cheer up, at least you’ve caught the bad guy.”
Essex Police uncovered documents revealing McCullough’s deceit as she attempted to conceal her financial troubles from her parents. McCullough, who previously pleaded guilty to two counts of murder, was sentenced at Chelmsford Crown Court. She will serve at least 36 years before being considered for parole.
Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby described McCullough as a skilled manipulator, who deceived not only her parents but also those around her. The investigation began after the couple’s doctor raised concerns in September 2023. McCullough’s evasive responses about her parents’ whereabouts led police to search the home, where the bodies were discovered.
McCullough confessed to the murders, explaining she had tested a drug concoction on her father before poisoning him with alcohol-laced medication. Her mother, however, received a lower dose and was only sedated. The next morning, McCullough attacked her mother with a hammer and fatally stabbed her while she lay in bed.
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The court heard that McCullough concealed the bodies and fabricated stories about her parents being unwell or away on holiday to avoid suspicion. The pandemic restrictions further aided her in maintaining the illusion that they were still alive. Following the murders, she used her father’s bank card to buy supplies and continued to live off their pensions and credit.
McCullough benefited financially from the crime, receiving almost £150,000, which was spent on gambling and other expenses. Her uncle, Richard Butcher, expressed his disbelief and sorrow, stating that his niece’s actions had severely shaken his faith in humanity. The judge, Mr. Justice Jeremy Johnson, condemned McCullough, emphasizing her disregard for her parents’ safety and well-being.
Author: Shalik
