Man Sentenced for 1986 Murder of Wife, Police Continue Search for Body
Raymond Reddington, a 79-year-old man, has been sentenced for the murder of his wife Sharon Fulton more than four decades ago, with the court hearing he may spend the rest of his life in prison. The sentencing took place on Monday, marking a significant development in a case that had remained cold for years.
Details of the Disappearance and Investigation
Sharon Fulton, a 39-year-old mother of four, was last seen in March 1986. She was dropping off her then three-year-old son Heath in the Perth industrial hub of Wangara and was due to attend a party at a friend’s house but never appeared. The case ran cold until a breakthrough in 2021, when the coroner’s office received a fake confession letter. DNA testing revealed the letter was sealed with Reddington’s saliva, leading to his arrest.
Reddington was charged with one count of wilful murder in October 2023 and was convicted last month. During the sentencing, the court was informed that he is suffering from bile duct cancer and may have just 18 months to live. Despite this, he will be eligible for parole in 20 years, but given his health condition, it is likely he will remain incarcerated for the remainder of his life.
Family's Reaction and Ongoing Search
Outside the court on Monday, Heath Fulton, now an adult, expressed the family's ongoing grief and determination. "It is the only thing we pretty much live for, to bring her home," he said. "We have much still left to do in trying to find our mother and that’s our priority: to keep focusing on that search for her final resting place." The family's plea highlights the unresolved nature of the case, as Sharon Fulton's body has never been found.
Police Commitment and Public Appeal
Western Australia Police have emphasized that the investigation will not end with Reddington’s conviction. Acting Inspector Jessica Securo of the Major Crime Division stated, "Those who believe time has protected them are mistaken. Western Australia Police will continue to pursue offenders, no matter how long it takes." She added, "Mrs Fulton’s family deserve answers and that’s why we are appealing for the public’s assistance. You could hold the key piece of vital information detectives need to bring this to a resolution."
The police described this case as reflecting their enduring commitment to justice for serious crimes, regardless of how much time has passed. Authorities are urging anyone with further information to contact police or Crime Stoppers to aid in the ongoing search for Sharon Fulton's body and bring closure to her family.
