THE “FIANCE” of a pensioner found drowned in the bath in her nightdress has appeared in court charged with murder.
Rita Fleming, 70, was discovered in the overflowing tub at her home in Kensington, South West London, on June 23.
Clifford Cowen, 57, who told police he was due to marry Rita in August, appeared at the Old Bailey today charged with murder.
Prosecutor Hamish Common said officers forced entry to the home at around 9.45am and discovered her body.
He added: “Ms Fleming was found in the bath drowned, wearing a night dress and underwear with the hot tap running and the plug covered by a towel.
“The cause of death was drowning but she had sustained serious traumatic injuries beforehand.”
Cowen was arrested that day and charged with murder on July 4.
He was remanded into custody to next appear at the same court on September 4 for a plea hearing.
The Met confirmed the pair were known to each other following the horror.
A spokesperson said: “An investigation was launched after police were called to Rita’s address in Golborne Road, W10 on Sunday, 23 June.
“Rita’s body was found inside the address.
“Her next of kin have been informed and continue to be supported by specially trained officers.
“Cowen was charged by detectives on Thursday, 4 July. He was initially arrested on 23 June and bailed while further enquiries were carried out.”
