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Man, 92, admits manslaughter of his wife
The Crown Prosecution Service accepted the plea after reviewing psychiatric evidence from three psychiatrists, and a pre-sentence report was ordered.
- On Thursday, Laurence Billam, 93, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of his wife, Shirley Billam, at Exeter Crown Court, denying murder. The Crown accepted the plea based on diminished responsibility.
- Emergency services discovered Shirley Billam dead at their Millbrook Lane home on April 19, 2026. Prosecutor Ray Tully KC said the Crown reviewed psychiatric evidence from three separate psychiatrists before accepting the plea.
- Appearing via video link from HMP Exeter, Billam confirmed his personal details during the hearing. Members of the Billam family attended, and Judge James Patrick acknowledged it was a difficult day for them.
- Judge Patrick adjourned sentencing until November 20, ordering pre-sentence reports from the Probation Service. "It is really important that you co-operate with them," the judge instructed Billam.
- Describing the case as "a rather unusual case," Judge Patrick noted social services expect involvement soon. He offered no promises regarding the sentence for the retired shop owner.
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The IndependentReposted by 
The Independent (US)
The Independent (US)Exeter man, 92, pleads guilty to manslaughter of wife
Shirley Billam was found dead at her home in April
·London, United Kingdom
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Coverage Details
Total News Sources8
Leaning Left2Leaning Right0Center5Last UpdatedBias Distribution71% Center
Bias Distribution
- 71% of the sources are Center
71% Center
L 29%
C 71%
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