Man given hospital order for the killing of his ex-partner

A man has been handed a hospital order for killing his estranged partner in 2023.

Peter Pitt (22/12/70), of Hyde Road, Manchester, had earlier pleaded guilty to manslaughter, following the death of Charlene Mills, 43. He was sentenced today (24 January 2025) at Manchester Crown Court.

On 30 September 2023, a woman known to Pitt woke up to a text message from him that stated that he had killed Charlene.

The woman and her partner went to the scene at Hyde Road where Charlene’s body was discovered. Police immediately responded and Pitt was arrested on suspicion of murder. Officers performed CPR on Charlene but were sadly unable to revive her.

When first approached by officers, Pitt immediately stated ‘I’ve killed her’ after telling them where Charlene was.

A subsequent home office post-mortem confirmed that Charlene's cause of death was strangulation.

Pitt stated that he believed he was being poisoned and that chemicals were being used against him.

Following her death, Charlene’s family paid tribute, calling her ‘beautiful inside and out’.

A spokesperson for her family said at the time: “We are so deeply saddened by the sudden loss of Charlene. She was beautiful inside and out and had a personality that would bring a smile to the faces of all that knew her, no matter what the situation.

“Charlene, or Char as we all knew her, was the most perfect daughter and big sister to Amber and Giselle. She loved being a mum and idolised her son Rydell and dog, Boxer. She was strong-willed, kind, and cheeky, overcoming so many obstacles in her life.

“The world just won’t be as fun without her, and our treasured memories of Char are the only little pieces of comfort we have.”

Chief Superintendent Helen Critchley, senior investigating officer, said: "Charlene’s family have been deeply affected by this senseless killing, and our thoughts remain with them today as Pitt begins a hospital order."

“We have supported the family throughout the process and will continue to do so wherever we can. I hope that they can get some closure from today’s outcome, and their memories of Charlene bring them comfort as they continue to rebuild their lives."

"GMP is committed to tackling violence against women and girls. Charlene thought she had moved on from this relationship when a chance encounter led her back into the path of danger.

"We can never change this terrible loss for Charlene's family but for anyone out there reading this and living with a violent and harmful relationship, we say: please seek help.

"There are dedicated domestic abuse charities there to support you with your life, while we will always listen to your concerns. Please do get in touch with someone before it's too late."

There are a number of partner agencies across Greater Manchester that can support you if you have become a victim of domestic violence - Support organisations for victims of domestic violence | Greater Manchester Police (gmp.police.uk)