Essex Man Convicted of Murdering Wife and Stepson Police Statement

Calogero Ricotta, age 64, was found guilty. The trial was held at Chelmsford Crown Court. The jury heard awful details of the attack. The attack caused the deaths of two victims.

Detective Inspector Lydia George spoke after court, praising the family’s strength throughout their difficult experience. Maria and Joe are central to this case.

Maria loved her family very much. She was a mother, a grandmother, a sister, and a daughter. Joe was a much-loved son and brother. Ricotta took their futures away.

Ricotta had a history of violence toward Joe. He had bruised and injured him before. Maria started divorce actions against Ricotta. He threatened that she couldn’t leave him.

Maria came home at 9:47 p.m. on May 28, 2024. Ricotta was waiting with a knife. He attacked Maria, killing her quickly. Joe tried to protect his mom, but Ricotta killed him too.

Detective Inspector George praised the officers’ work. They pieced together the events sequence, which led to Ricotta’s conviction in court.

The investigation showed Ricotta controlled Maria and Joe. Detectives worked very hard on it. They presented a detailed timeline to the jury, ensuring Ricotta faced justice for his actions.

Ricotta claimed he acted in self-defense that night. But forensic evidence proved otherwise. CCTV footage and witness reports also refuted his story.

DI George said to focus on Maria and Joe, stating Ricotta’s conviction offers some justice. “Today is not about Ricotta,” she stated firmly. It is about Maria, Joe, and their loved ones.

She asked people to value the family’s privacy now, as they are grieving the terrible loss. This is a very hard time for them.