A major police hunt was launched after 30-year-old Madison Wright vanished on July 22, 2022. Just days later, her partner Garry Bennett was arrested on suspicion of murder.
While in custody, officers discovered disturbing text messages on Bennett’s phone. These revealed that Madison had felt trapped and controlled in their relationship and was desperate to escape. Further investigations identified Bennett as a key suspect in her disappearance.
On July 30, Essex Police made a heartbreaking discovery when Madison’s body was found dumped in Wat Tyler Country Park.
Nearly 100 police officers worked alongside forensic experts, including a botanist, entomologist, and anthropologist, to piece together what happened to Madison. Their thorough investigation led to Bennett being charged with her murder on July 31 and quickly remanded in custody.
The trial began at Basildon Crown Court on March 13. During the proceedings, it was revealed that Bennett had frantically searched the internet for “incidents in Basildon today” and information about Wat Tyler Park. He also messaged Madison’s family, claiming he would never harm her and said he had been searching “our place,” Wat Tyler Country Park, for her.
After just two and a half hours of deliberation, the jury found Bennett guilty of murder. The judge described the case as “one of the most overwhelming and distressing” she had ever encountered.
Today, Bennett, 37, from Pitsea, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 21 years.
Judge Samantha Leigh praised Essex Police for their “fantastically solid case” built on traditional detective work using CCTV and ANPR technology.
Detective Superintendent Rob Kirby called Bennett “a schemer, a liar and a murderer,” paying tribute to Madison and condemning Bennett’s actions. “Madison was a victim of domestic abuse and controlling behaviour,” he said.
Kirby urged anyone suffering from domestic abuse to contact Essex Police or support organisations such as “Next Chapter” for assistance.
Chief Inspector Dan Mchugh said Madison’s death has deeply affected the Basildon community. He thanked the public for their compassion and encouraged victims of violence to seek help.
Madison’s family expressed their heartfelt gratitude to Essex Police and all witnesses who helped bring justice for their loved one.
Originally published by UKNIP.
