Matthew Battenbough, 34, of no fixed abode, pleaded guilty to murder at Swansea Crown Court in August. Today he was sentenced to life imprisonment and must serve a minimum of 20 years and 114 days before being considered for release.
Leanne Williams’ body was discovered by officers at her home on Gomer Road, Townhill, on Thursday 27 February. A Home Office post‑mortem confirmed she had suffered significant injuries consistent with an assault.
“Devastating to her family and community”
Detective Inspector David Butt of South Wales Police said:
“The news of Leanne’s death was devastating to her family and to the wider communities of Townhill and Swansea.
Matthew Battenbough’s actions took Leanne’s life, tore apart the lives of her family and also caused immense distress to his own family.
We hope that this sentence offers some comfort to Leanne’s family and friends.
I would like to thank the community of Townhill for the way that they assisted and supported the investigation during what was a very sad and difficult time.”
Family tribute
In a statement, Leanne’s family said:
“Leanne was beautiful, strong, and kind. She loved nature and animals and had a special connection to horses.
She aspired to help others by giving them the opportunity to access specially‑trained horses and ponies who were sensitive to mental health and other issues.
She will be missed dearly.
We would like to thank South Wales Police for their continued support and the due diligence of the investigation team.”
