Vietnamese robber kills house owner, hides body in water tank
The robber was just released from prison in October 2020

A shocking case has emerged from Wales, where a 60-year-old man, Christopher Phillips, has been sentenced to two years and four months in prison for hiding his mother's body in a freezer for nearly three years. The man concealed the body to continue receiving over £70,000 (approximately 2.47 billion VND) in pension and benefits that were meant for his deceased mother, Sylvia Phillips.
Sylvia, who was a retired secretary, passed away at the age of 89. Just two days after her death, Phillips purchased a freezer and placed her body inside it, keeping it in the living room of their home in Porthcawl. Reports indicate that he would often place flowers on the freezer and talk to her about television shows and horse racing.
Authorities became concerned when medical professionals were unable to ascertain Sylvia's condition for an extended period, prompting them to report the situation to the police. When officers arrived, Phillips claimed that his mother had gone to London, but they discovered the body after noticing the flowers placed on the freezer.
During the investigation, it was revealed that Phillips had been using his mother's bank account, withdrawing savings, and fraudulently claiming her benefits. He continued to collect her prescriptions and deceived medical professionals regarding her whereabouts, insisting that she did not wish to attend appointments or undergo tests.
Phillips' defense attorney, Ruth Smith, argued that he was extremely close to his mother and had cared for her since 2008. She noted that he was a vulnerable individual with unstable mental health at the time of her passing, emphasizing his emotional distress over her death.
Ultimately, Phillips pleaded guilty to preventing a lawful burial and two counts of fraud. This disturbing case highlights the lengths to which some individuals may go to secure financial benefits, even at the expense of dignity and respect for their loved ones.