Man pleads guilty to 'heinous' murder of woman in Henley-on-Thames drowning case

A 45-year-old man has pleaded guilty to the murder of a woman in south Oxfordshire earlier this year, police have confirmed.

Nelio Gouveia admitted to a single count of murder during an appearance at Oxford Crown Court on Thursday, according to Thames Valley Police.

His guilty plea follows the death of 44-year-old Jennifer Symonds in Henley-on-Thames back in March.

Thames Valley Police launched a murder probe after being called to Phyllis Court Drive at around 7.50am on 6 March, when they found Ms Symonds’ body. The force said Gouveia and Ms Symonds were known to each other.

The defendant previously lived in Phyllis Court Drive, which is also home to the Phyllis Court private members’ club on the banks of the River Thames.

Gouveia was arrested on the same day Ms Symonds’ body was found, and was charged with her murder on 8 March. A court hearing earlier this year heard that a post-mortem examination showed Ms Symonds died from drowning.

According to her LinkedIn profile, Ms Symonds previously worked for Microsoft as a senior success account manager in Reading.

Following his conviction on Thursday, Gouveia has been remanded in custody, and he is due to be sentenced at Oxford Crown Court on 20 November.

“My thoughts remain firmly with Jennifer’s family, who have lost someone who was dear to them,” senior investigating officer Detective Inspector Rob Underhill, of the Thames Valley Police Major Crime Unit, said on Thursday.

“Nelio’s actions on 6 March were heinous, and I am pleased that he has pleaded guilty. This case demonstrates Thames Valley Police’s commitment to investigating violence against women and girls.

“If you are a victim of violence, then please be reassured that we have specially trained officers who will listen and support you.”