Killer husband stabbed wife six times before claiming she took her own life

Mohamed Samak, 43, of Chestnut Spinney, Droitwich Spa, was found guilty of killing 49-year-old Joanne Samak following a trial.

The hearing at Worcester Crown Court heard that Samak stabbed Mrs Samak six times in the early hours of July 1, last year.

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He drove a knife through her breastbone and into her heart, the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) said.

Joanne Samak(Image: West mercia Police )

He then waited over an hour after neighbours heard screaming before calling 999, by which time she had been dead for some time.

The defendant then “repeatedly lied to police to avoid responsibility”, the CPS said.

Mrs Samak had prepared for the day ahead, setting an alarm on her phone for the next morning, and hung out a red dress to wear – suggesting she had no indication of the violence that would follow.

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The victim’s family have paid tribute to her “loyal, kind and caring” side.

In a statement Joanne’s family said: “Jo was a beautiful, thoughtful person. She was loyal, kind and caring to everyone that touched her life. She was deeply loved by us, her family and her many, many friends.

“Most importantly, she was an amazing mummy. Her loss has had a devastating impact on everyone who knew and loved her, and we will never come to terms with losing her in such a cruel and senseless way.

“Jo’s zest for life was infectious. She was generous, creative and full of fun, with a wonderful sense of style and a passion for interior design, fashion, art and nature.

“Jo had so much more life to live, and we will miss her and love her forever.”

Speaking after the case, Jonathan Roe, from the Crown Prosecution Service, said: “Mohamed Samak killed his wife and tried to claim she had taken her own life, repeatedly lying to police to avoid responsibility.

“This callous attempt to present his crime as a suicide has caused further anguish to Jo’s family.

“Thankfully, the jury saw through his lies and convicted him for this heinous crime against a defenceless woman who had her whole life to look forward to – and could never have imagined her own husband would cause her such serious harm.

“Jo’s family have shown great dignity and strength through this difficult process, and our thoughts are with them.”

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Mark Walters from West Mercia Police said: “Whilst I am pleased that Mohamed Samak will face a substantial number of years in prison following today’s guilty verdict, the loss of Joanne will continue to be felt deeply by her family and friends, and our thoughts remain with them.

“I would particularly like to pay tribute to Joannes family who, despite the continuous lies by the defendant regarding the events leading to her death, have remained dignified and courageous throughout.”