A man is currently on trial, accused of plotting to hire a hitman to murder his estranged wife. Former Tata Steel worker, Paul Lewis, allegedly paid a neighbour £1,500 to arrange the services of a killer. Swansea Crown Court was informed that no actual attempt was made on Lewis’ wife, but the prosecution asserts that an agreement was reached between the two defendants to organize her murder. Lewis, 54, and his neighbour, Dominque Saunders, 34, have denied the charge of conspiracy to commit murder.
According to the prosecution’s opening statements presented by barrister Nicola Powell, Lewis and Joanne Atkinson-Lewis were in a relationship for approximately 16 years, with 10 years of marriage. In early 2021, they decided to separate and initiate divorce proceedings. The prosecution alleges that between February and April 2023, Lewis and Saunders conspired to murder Lewis’ wife. Text messages exchanged between the two men are said to demonstrate their plans, with Lewis expressing frustration after seeing his wife alive on Aberavon beach, leading him to question why she was “still breathing”.
Further evidence presented in court includes Saunders’ internet searches related to guns, gun shops, and information on individuals involved in fatal incidents. Lewis’ son, Keiran Lewis, testified that he discovered incriminating information on his father’s phone, indicating Saunders’ involvement in the sinister scheme. Keiran’s decision to involve the police was based on his father’s intoxicated state and concerning behavior.
The court also heard statements from Joanne Atkinson-Lewis, where she detailed her husband’s declining mental health following their separation. Despite receiving support and joining groups to aid his well-being, his mental state continued to deteriorate. Following a heated argument in January 2021, Lewis left their home, sparking a series of events leading to the alleged murder plot.
The trial of Paul Lewis and Dominique Saunders continues at Swansea Crown Court. Both defendants, residents of Swansea Marina, deny the conspiracy to commit murder charges. The court is currently examining witness testimonies and evidence to determine the outcome of this disturbing case.