Husband, 92, pleads guilty to manslaughter of wife

A 92-year-old man has pleaded guilty to manslaughter following the death of his 87-year-old wife.

Officers from Devon and Cornwall Police were called to a sheltered apartment in Millbrook Lane, Exeter, Devon, on 19 April following reports of a concern for welfare and Shirley Billam was found dead.

Appearing before Exeter Crown Court on Thursday Laurence Billam denied murder, but admitted manslaughter with diminished responsibility.

The court accepted his plea and remanded him in custody until sentencing on 20 November.

The court previously heard Laurence Billam had allegedly smothered his wife at their home before attempting to take his own life.

Ray Tully KC, prosecutor, said: "I've been able to consult both with the Crown Prosecution Service and the police, and indeed with Mr Billam's family present in court today.

"Having considered the matter carefully and having considered all of the evidence in the case, and in particular having reviewed the psychiatric evidence in the case, which now comes from three separate psychiatrists, the Crown has concluded that that plea is acceptable to us."

Judge James Patrick said: "This is a rather unusual case, and social services are expecting to have to get involved sooner rather than later.

"I repeat what I said: it must be very, very difficult for Mr Billam's family."

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