Paul Topham, a 45-year-old man, has been sentenced to life imprisonment for the murder of 94-year-old Harold Monk in Wolverhampton. Topham will serve a minimum of 33 years behind bars after he broke into Mr Monk's flat on 3 October last year while under the influence of drugs and alcohol.

During his trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court, Topham expressed shame over his actions, stating he was "disgusted, ashamed and repulsed by the devastation I've caused his poor family." He pleaded guilty to manslaughter but denied murder, claiming he did not intend to kill Mr Monk. Topham admitted to a long history of drug addiction, having started using hard drugs at the age of 15. He acknowledged a 30-year criminal record, primarily for burglary-related offences, which he described as a means to feed his addiction.

The court heard that Topham had planned the burglary, having previously taken the keys to Mr Monk's flat during a visit to his mother, who lived in the same sheltered housing complex. He claimed he was unaware of who lived in the flat and intended to steal money for drugs. Topham was described as being in a "drowsy" state during the incident, having consumed "Black Mamba" and super-strength alcohol.

Mr Monk was attacked after waking up to confront Topham, suffering severe injuries including fractures to his face, skull, spine, and ribs. He died in hospital the following day. Footage shown in court revealed Mr Monk speaking to detectives from his hospital bed, detailing the attack and describing how Topham had jumped on him and punched him.

Judge Michael Chambers KC condemned Topham's actions, stating, "When he woke up and challenged you, you subjected him to a sustained and brutal attack beyond anything that was needed simply to escape. It was a particularly despicable crime and falls among the worst sorts of homicides." He noted that Mr Monk had lived a fulfilling life and was looking forward to celebrating his 95th birthday before his tragic death.