Man pleads guilty to murder of university lecturer

A man has pleaded guilty to the murder of university lecturer Claire Chick.

Paul Butler, 53, of Stangray Avenue, Plymouth, also admitted one charge of possession of a bladed article when he appeared at Plymouth Crown Court.

Ms Chick, 48, was found seriously injured in West Hoe Road just before 21:00 GMT on 22 January and taken to hospital, but died in the early hours of the next day.

Butler, who appeared at court via video link from prison, spoke only to confirm his name and enter his pleas and is due to be sentenced on 25 April.

The court heard victim impact statements would be given by Ms Chick's two daughters at the sentencing hearing.

Judge Robert Linford ordered pre-sentence reports and told Butler he faced a life sentence.

"I am going to order that a psychiatric report is prepared upon you, which will assist the court in determining the minimum term that must be served by you before you are considered for parole," he told Butler.

Det Supt Rachael Bentley, Devon and Cornwall Police's head of major crime, said: "Our thoughts continue to be with Claire's family and friends who have lost someone who was so dearly loved and adored by many."

Devon and Cornwall Police said it had referred itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) in relation to the case.

The force said officers had made contact with Ms Chick on a number of occasions since 2023.

A spokesperson said: "Our investigation is considering the actions and decisions taken by Devon and Cornwall Police and examining whether relevant policies and procedures were followed."

The spokesperson added: "We have met with Ms Chick's family to explain our role and express our sincere condolences."

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