Life Imprisonment for Cadell Jeansen Raja in Kerala Family Murders

Court Sentences Cadell Jeansen Raja

On May 13, 2025, the Additional District and Sessions Court in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, sentenced 37-year-old Cadell Jeansen Raja to life imprisonment for the horrific murders of his parents, sister, and aunt in 2017. The court found him guilty of multiple charges, including murder, causing damage through fire or explosives, and attempting to destroy evidence. Along with the life sentence, a fine of ₹15 lakh was imposed, which will be awarded as compensation to his uncle, Jose, the primary witness in the case.

Details of the Case

Special Public Prosecutor Dileep Sathyan stated, "The accused has been convicted for all four murders and sentenced to life imprisonment. He is also required to pay ₹3 lakh for each murder, totaling ₹12 lakh. Additionally, he received a seven-year sentence for destroying evidence by setting the house ablaze." Sathyan further explained that Cadell must serve the seven-year sentence first, followed by the five-year term, before the life imprisonment takes effect.

The Tragic Events of April 2017

The shocking incident unfolded in Thiruvananthapuram between April 5 and 8, 2017, when the community learned that four family members had been found dead. The victims included Cadell's father, mother, sister, and maternal aunt, all residing in the same household. The eldest son, Cadell, was initially missing. Authorities discovered two machetes, a blood-stained axe, and a petrol can at the crime scene, along with a human figure made from cloth, iron, and plastic.

Background of the Family

Cadell's family was among the affluent in Thiruvananthapuram, with all members highly educated. Dr. Jean Padma, a retired doctor, had extensive experience working abroad, while her husband, Raja Thankam, was a teacher. Their youngest daughter, Caroline, had just returned after completing her MBBS in China. Cadell had pursued higher studies abroad but dropped out of multiple programs, leading to feelings of isolation and resentment towards his family, particularly his sister.

The Murders

Cadell's animosity culminated in a plan to murder his entire family. He first killed his mother, luring her upstairs under the pretense of showing her a video game he created. After hiding her body, he proceeded to murder his father and sister in a similar manner. When questioned by his aunt and the maid about the whereabouts of the others, he falsely claimed they had gone on a trip to Kanyakumari. The following night, he killed his aunt, using the same axe and hiding her body as well.

Claims of Occult Practices

Cadell later claimed to have practiced astral projection and Satanism for over a decade, asserting that he could communicate with spirits. His unusual behavior and statements often bewildered prison staff. The trial for the Nanthankod massacre commenced last November after a medical board report confirmed that Cadell had regained his mental health.