Two Convicted After Man's Death

21 February 2011, 12:06 | Updated: 7 March 2011, 15:04

Two men have been convicted by a jury at Ipswich Crown Court today following the death of a man in Sudbury last year.

45-year-old Patrick Baker was found dead at his home in Blackfriars after police were called on the morning of Saturday 10th April 2010.

33-year-old Neil Broomfield from Ballingdon Street in Sudbury, and 31-year-old Simon Barnes from Raydon Way in Great Cornard, were arrested on Friday 16th April 2010 and on Sunday 18th April both were charged with murder. They denied the offence at court and following a trial Broomfield was found guilty of murder and Barnes found guilty of manslaughter.

Senior Investigating Officer, Detective Inspector Andy Smith of the Norfolk and Suffolk Joint Major Investigation Team, said, "Patrick’s murder was a tragic crime which left the local community deeply shocked - and our sympathies remain with his family and friends.

His murder resulted in a lengthy inquiry by the Norfolk and Suffolk Joint Major Investigation Team, which was helped by the public who offered a great deal of support and information. I would like to thank all the staff who contributed to this enquiry and everyone in the community, including the media, for their help and support which enabled quick arrests and ultimately today’s conviction.

Murder remains a rare crime in Suffolk, but still brings fear to the community, even when those responsible are known to the victim. At the time of Patrick’s death and afterwards, the Sudbury and Great Cornard Safer Neighbourhood Team has worked hard to ensure everyone can continue to feel and stay safe in the town.”

Both of the men will be sentenced at Ipswich Crown Court next month.

Patrick’s family have issued the following statement:

February 17th 2011

"We would like to thank Mr Sadd and his team, also DI Smith and his team who were supportive understanding and kind. It has been a very difficult time for our family, and we do appreciate everything that has been done for us.

As Patrick’s mother I would like to say that even though his life choices were unfortunate, he had many gifts, he was a talented musician, loved books and had in his last year become more positive about a clean future. I loved him and I know he loved me, he will stay in our hearts always."

Bob and Marney Jerrold, Andy John and Oliver (brothers), Bern, Emma, Christine, his true friends Ted and fellow musicians.

Pictured: Neil Broomfield and Simon Barnes