Calogero Ricotta receives life sentence for the violent deaths of his wife and stepson in Ugley. Jury swiftly convicts.
The jury quickly found Ricotta guilty of murder. He claimed barking dogs caused a dispute, but they didn’t believe him. Ricotta showed no emotion when the court announced the verdict. It happened at Chelmsford Crown Court.
Judge Stacey sentenced him to at least 33 years. She said his violence was shocking. Maria died because she stood up to him. Ricotta looked at the public but didn’t speak.
The jury heard about Maria and Giuseppe’s injuries. Maria had at least 14 stab wounds and suffered 44 other wounds, one a very bad wound on her neck. Joe suffered many sharp force injuries too. His neck and chest wounds were the worst, and he also had defensive wounds, trying to protect himself.
Judge Stacey said Maria was bubbly and optimistic. Joe was deeply loved by his family and experienced problems caused by Ricotta’s actions.
Family and friends shared their feelings in court. The people in court heard them described as “slaughtered like animals.” The jury stayed to hear the sentence too. Sylvia James said Maria was a friend you only get once, and Amanda Hedges said Joe talked about his family and was great to work with.
Ricotta’s lawyer didn’t offer much to defend him. He said Ricotta was 64 and without prior convictions. He called it an inexplicable outburst of violence.
Judge Stacey said Ricotta should have known better, and knowing Maria was a privilege. Giuseppe’s life was tragically cut short at 29. He was deeply loved, and his struggles resulted from Ricotta’s treatment.
Ricotta’s behavior led Maria to seek a divorce. She stood up to him, but he wouldn’t agree because of his pride. He tried to force her to stay married.
Ricotta must serve at least 33 years and 102 days. Then the Parole Board can consider his release.