A MAN who stole the life savings of his disabled friend, then murdered him at his Warrington home in “extreme” violence, was jailed for at least 17 years.
Andrew Blaine, 25, emptied the Post Office account of housebound Kevin Walsh, then attacked him ferociously before slashing his throat and leaving him to die.
Mr Walsh, 46, was found dead at his home on February 12. A post mortem established he was the victim of a violent and prolonged assault.
Blaine, of Pheasant Close, Warrington, pleaded guilty to murder at Chester Crown Court.
The hearing was told unmarried Mr Walsh could not walk following a series of illnesses. Prosecutors said he relied upon neighbours and a small circle of friends who would help him about the house and do his shopping.
One of those Mr Walsh trusted was Blaine, and the victim had allowed his killer access to his Post Office account.
Police believe Blaine abused his position of trust and stole money.
Blaine telephoned police in the early hours of February 12 and claimed he had found Mr Walsh dead. But later that day, officers raided the defendant’s home and found his clothing stained with the blood of his victim.
Blaine was jailed for life with a minimum 17-year term.
