Clacton: Woman jailed for murder of James Self

A London woman who murdered her partner in a Clacton hotel has been jailed for life after our detectives showed she was responsible for his death.

Polly Murphy, of Hornsey Lane Gardens in Highgate, assaulted her partner 47-year-old James Self, also from London, in the Smugglers Cove hotel in Hartley Brook Road on 8 November 2023.

Murphy waited 18 hours before calling James an ambulance, only telling them he may have a broken leg. In fact, James had been punched, kicked and stamped on in a sustained two-hour assault.

James passed away in hospital on 21 December 2023, with Murphy being found guilty of his murder on 13 January 2026 at Chelmsford Crown Court.

Today, Wednesday 4 February, she was sentenced at the same court to life in prison with a minimum of 15 years.

Detective Anthony Kopf of the Essex and Kent Serious Crime Directorate, who was the officer in this case, said:

We know this outcome can never make up for the loss James’ family have gone through, but I hope it provides a sense of closure to this incredibly difficult ordeal.
His family and his mother Ashe have conducted themselves with dignity in the face of the most challenging evidence. They heard how James had been subject to a campaign of abuse, physical and emotional, from Murphy starting well before that night in Clacton.
This sentence was only possible thanks to the co-ordinated efforts of our officers, expert medical witnesses, the CPS and crown prosecutors Barnaby Shaw and Samantha Wright.
More than two years of our work meant Murphy had nowhere to hide in court, and the jury quickly concluded she was guilty of murder.
This case serves as a reminder that domestic abuse can affect anyone, including men.
No one should feel ashamed to seek help. Essex Police are here to assist, support, and guide anyone experiencing abuse, regardless of gender.

In a Victim Personal Statement shared at sentencing, James’ mother Ashe said:

The intense grief of losing James and learning in the court of the verbal, psychological and physical abuse is utterly unimaginable.
The lack of humanity shown after his brutal final fatal attack is imprinted on my mind and will haunt me for the remainder of my days.
I am grateful to all concerned who heard James’ voice in the dark and believed him.
The pain of intense loss may fade after time but the sadness will always be there.
Thank you to all who stood up for James and honoured him.

Speaking as he sentenced Murphy, His Honour Judge Christopher Morgan spoke about Murphy's violent outbursts:

You took offence to him calling you his girlfriend. You became, erratic, volatile and threatening.
When he responded to you in conciliatory terms your abuse turned physical.
Around 7 October you threw a phone at his head causing a black eye.
You soon returned to your threats; threats he should watch his back, that you would hunt him down, and on one occasion that you would kill him. 
His mother Ashe speaks of her son James having a gentle temperament, leaving her distressed that she was aware of your physical and verbal violence in those final few months.
The grief of the family is profound and the pain is visceral.

Reflect on your abusive behaviour.

If your actions are causing harm in your relationship, it’s time to take responsibility and make a change.

Confidential help is available.

Visit Essex Compass for behaviour‑change support and guidance.