Husband Gets Suspended Sentence After Wife’s Death in Bournemouth
An 83-year-old man has been handed an 18-month suspended prison sentence following the tragic death of his wife in Bournemouth.
Sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court
Grenville Douglas Richings, of Bournemouth, appeared at Salisbury Crown Court on Tuesday, 12 December 2023. He was sentenced to 18 months in jail, suspended for two years, after previously admitting manslaughter on the grounds of diminished responsibility.
Richings had pleaded guilty at Winchester Crown Court on 27 November 2023.
Tragic Incident in Southbourne
Dorset Police were called to a home on Roscrea Drive, off Wick Lane in Southbourne, at around 7pm on Saturday, 3 June 2023. Concern was raised for the welfare of 83-year-old Elizabeth Richings.
Emergency services attended the scene, but tragically Elizabeth was pronounced dead.
Grenville Richings was also found injured at the address. He was arrested in connection with his wife’s death and taken to hospital under police guard for treatment.
Investigation and Aftermath
Dorset Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team launched a full probe into the circumstances behind Elizabeth’s death. After being discharged from hospital on 27 June 2023, Richings was taken into police custody and charged following consultation with the Crown Prosecution Service.
Detective Inspector Mark Jenkins said: “This was a tragic incident that has had a devastating impact on the loved ones of Elizabeth Richings in the saddest of circumstances. I hope that Grenville Richings’ guilty plea and the sentence determined by the court today, following expert medical evidence, can bring some opportunity for the family to start to come to terms with the loss of Elizabeth.”
“The thoughts of the investigation team and everyone at 1 remain with her family and friends during this incredibly difficult time.”
