92-Year-Old Man Admits Killing Wife in Failed Suicide Pact
A pensioner has pleaded guilty to manslaughter after suffocating his wife, an act he allegedly committed as part of a suicide pact.
A 92-year-old man has admitted to killing his 87-year-old wife in what authorities are investigating as a failed suicide pact, making him one of Britain's oldest offenders.
Laurence Billam suffocated his wife, Shirley, with a pillow at their shared apartment in Devon before taking an overdose of his prescribed medication. Police and paramedics responded to the couple's sheltered accommodation on Millbrook Lane in Exeter on Sunday, April 19, at approximately 12:40 p.m. Mrs. Billam, who was a retired shop owner, was pronounced dead at the scene.
Following an investigation, Mr. Billam was arrested. On Thursday, he pleaded not guilty to murder but admitted to manslaughter by diminished responsibility. Prosecutors had previously informed Exeter Magistrates' Court that the couple had allegedly agreed to end their lives together, with Mr. Billam reportedly stating he did not want his wife to be left with responsibilities. Notes were found explaining his actions, and the concern of family members prompted police to visit their home.
Mrs. Billam was found to have been smothered. Her husband was taken to the hospital after ingesting an overdose of prescribed medication. Mr. Billam appeared via video link from Exeter Prison, wearing a beige t-shirt, to enter his guilty plea. He responded with a quiet "sorry" when asked for his name, but otherwise spoke clearly during the proceedings. Members of the Billam family were present in court for the hearing.
Judge James Patrick acknowledged the case as "tragic" and "a very difficult day" for the family. The court reviewed three psychiatric reports, and the plea of unlawful killing was accepted. No pre-sentence report has been prepared yet.
Mr. Billam's defense barrister, Lee Bremridge, indicated that an urgent assessment by social services was required to consider a potential placement for his client. Judge Patrick emphasized the "unusual" nature of the case and the need for prompt involvement from social services. Mr. Billam confirmed his understanding and agreement to cooperate with the forthcoming reports. The Crown prosecutor, Ray Tully, stated that the plea was acceptable, and the sentencing has been adjourned to November 20.