Killer admits he was 'out of control' on drugs before fatally attacking Wolverhampton pensioner, 94
The burglar who killed a Wolverhampton pensioner admitted he was "in a drug-and-drink-induced stupor" when he battered his victim to death.
Paul Topham took the stand on Friday (July 18) during his trial at Wolverhampton Crown Court for the murder of 94-year-old Harold Monk last year.
Topham, who entered Mr Monk's Bradmore home and attacked him in an attempted burglary, causing the injuries to which he succumbed the following day, has admitted manslaughter and burglary but denies murder.
The jury heard the 45-year-old had a criminal history stretching back decades after becoming hooked on drugs aged 14. However, he claimed he always pleaded guilty to the crimes he committed over the years.
Wearing a white shirt and black tie, Topham admitted he was addicted to alcohol and hard drugs when he burgled his mother's neighbour Mr Monk on October 4 last year.
