Paul Butler pleads guilty to murdering university lecturer Claire Chick in Plymouth

Paul Antony Butler, 53, has pleaded guilty to the murder of his estranged wife, Claire Chick, 48, a lecturer at the University of Plymouth, who was fatally stabbed on January 22. Following the attack, Chick was rushed to the hospital but succumbed to her injuries the next day. Butler, who also admitted to possessing a bladed article, appeared in Plymouth Crown Court via video link and showed visible emotion during the proceedings. Chick was described by her family as a beloved mother and grandmother, with tributes highlighting her significant contributions to nursing education. The case has prompted the Devon & Cornwall Police to refer itself to the Independent Office for Police Conduct due to prior interactions with Chick. Butler's sentencing is anticipated, as he was initially scheduled for trial in July.