A chilling video shows the moment paramedics arrived at the home of Leon Pratt, a disabled man found dead after being left unattended for nearly two weeks. The body of 64-year-old Leon Pratt was discovered decomposing in a duvet on his bed in Telford, Shropshire, on October 26, 2024.
Concerned neighbours raised the alarm after not seeing Mr. Pratt for several weeks. The investigation uncovered that his ‘unofficial carer,’ Jason Trundle, was responsible for his death.
Bodycam footage released by West Mercia Police captures paramedics entering the property. One paramedic remarks, “Can you smell that?” followed by the killer, Trundle, pointing to a bedroom door, stating, “In there. He’s been dead about 12 days.”
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When asked if anyone had been informed, Trundle admitted he had told no one and spoke about his own situation, saying, “Nobody knows I’m here, I don’t have any money, I’ve gotta look after that dog. So where am I gonna go and what am I gonna do?”
Despite paramedics’ questions, Trundle asserted, “I didn’t kill him. He just died,” but refused to answer further inquiries. He described Mr. Pratt as “off the plot” and said he had to lock him inside the house when he went shopping due to his declining health.
Police later arrived and asked about the cause of death. Trundle responded dismissively with, “Next question.”
At Stafford Crown Court, Trundle admitted manslaughter and charges related to preventing a lawful burial and fraud, as he had used Mr. Pratt’s bank card while the victim was deceased. However, jurors convicted him of murder.
On April 10, at Worcester Crown Court, Trundle was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 19 years.
The trial revealed that Trundle, 52, had moved in with Mr. Pratt after meeting on social media. Homeless himself, Trundle became Mr. Pratt’s unofficial carer, providing daily assistance to someone reliant on a wheelchair and walking sticks.
Neighbours in Downmeade, Hollinswood, where Mr. Pratt lived, called emergency services after going weeks without contact. Paramedics smelled “putrid” odors consistent with decomposition upon arrival at 7:30 pm on October 26.
Following a post-mortem, police found significant injuries to Mr. Pratt’s back, ribs, and neck, leading to murder charges against Trundle, who was initially released on bail.
Detective Inspector Joanne Delahay condemned Trundle’s actions, highlighting the betrayal of trust and the extended suffering inflicted on Mr. Pratt’s family. She expressed hope that the sentencing brings them some closure.