Scott Melville sentenced to life imprisonment for murder of 91-year-old Leamington man Sydney Pavier

Mr Pavier was found severely injured at his home in Gordon Street, Leamington, on September 16 last year.

The front door of his house had been forced open and the property had been ransacked.

He died as a result of his injuries at Warwick Hospital six weeks later on October 28.

Before Mr Pavier’s death. Melville, 38, of no fixed address, had originally been charged with burglary and causing grievous bodily harm in connection with the incident.

Det Chief Insp James Essex, the leading police officer on the case, said: “Scott Melville has today been found guilty of the murder of Sydney Pavier and has been sentenced to life imprisonment.

“He must serve a minimum of 26 years.

“This sentence reflects the violence inflicted by Melville, but it cannot in any way equate for taking the life of a frail old gentleman who had proudly maintained his independence at his home, despite his failing eyesight.

“Sydney had served in the Army and worked as a carpenter in Leamington until he retired some years ago.

“He was a man of modest means, with little of value in his home and although in later years he seldom went out, he kept himself up to date on what was happening in the world through his radio.

“Intensely proud of his independence, he had resolutely refused the help of carers, and had only reluctantly accepted some assistance from relatives when his failing eyesight meant he could no longer cook his meals properly.

“Why Melville chose to break into Sydney’s home, why he then attacked this defenceless, partially sighted frail old man, we cannot know.

“Sydney was found badly beaten, lying unconscious on his bed, when relatives called to see him on the morning of 16 September last year.

“Despite his horrendous injuries, Sydney battled to live, but more than a month later he sadly lost his fight for life.”