Wright guilty of Ipswich prostitute murders

Steve Wright is facing life in jail after being found guilty today of murdering five prostitutes.

Wright, 49, was convicted after a six-week trial at Ipswich Crown Court.

Wright, from Ipswich, who once worked as a steward on the QE2, had denied killing Gemma Adams, 25, Tania Nicol, 19, Anneli Alderton, 24, Paula Clennell, 24, and Annette Nicholls, 29.

The remains of the five women, who all worked as prostitutes in Ipswich, were found in isolated spots near the town during a 10-day period in December 2006.

Detectives launched an inquiry after Miss Nicol vanished in late October 2006.

Prosecutors said Wright “systematically selected and murdered” the prostitutes over a six-and-a-half-week period.

They said he stalked the red-light district near his home when partner Pam Wright, 59, was working nights at a call centre.

Trial judge Mr Justice Gross said Wright would probably be sentenced tomorrow.

Wright's brother Keith said: ``I'm surprised the verdict has been so quick. I would have thought there is enough things for them to have some doubt.

“I don’t know if surprised at the verdict is exactly the right word. I just didn’t think it would be so quick. Whatever the sentence, it’s all over now.”