FOR 8,001 days, Tim Dixon and his sister Julia Pratley have waited to see the man responsible for the brutal murder of their parents brought to justice.
It has been an interminable wait — more than 20 years of wondering when, or if, that killer would finally hear the words “guilty” from a jury.
Yesterday Tim and Julia got that moment.
John Cooper, a man whose crimes were described as evil, was handed four life sentences for the murder of Witney holidaymakers Peter and Gwenda Dixon in 1989, and those of Richard Thomas and his sister Helen.
The Dixons’ children maintained their dignity, speaking of their gratitude that a dedicated band of police officers did not give up on the case and finally nailed Cooper.
They said that the jail sentence — and the fact Cooper will surely not see the light of day again — offered “some closure” and they could begin the task of getting on with the rest of their lives.
It will only be some closure and some comfort. But at least from now on they know the man who so wickedly took their parents from them has finally been brought to account.
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article