Exeter man, 92, pleads guilty to manslaughter of wife

A 92-year-old man has admitted killing his wife after her body was discovered earlier this year.

Laurence Billam pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of Shirley Billam, 87, by reason of diminished responsibility, but denied murder.

Mrs Billam was discovered dead at her home on 19 April, Exeter Crown Court heard.

Ray Tully KC, prosecuting, told the court Billam’s pleas were acceptable to the Crown.

“We were last before Your Honour on September 3, and on that date the defence indicated orally in open court that there was an offer of a plea to manslaughter on the basis of diminished responsibility,” he said.

“Following on from that hearing, we invited the court to allow us a little bit of time just to consider the position formally.

“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, the Recorder of Exeter, adjourned sentencing until 20 November for the preparation of pre-sentence reports, including from the Probation Service and adult services.

“This is a rather unusual case, and social services are expecting to have to get involved sooner rather than later,” he said.

“I repeat what I said: it must be very, very difficult for Mr Billam’s family.”

Addressing the defendant, who was on video link from prison, the judge said: “You and I will meet next on November 20 when I will sentence you.

“It is very likely that you will see somebody from probation and perhaps also from social services between now and then. You have seen quite a lot of people in this case, and I am afraid you will see some more.

“It is really important that you co-operate with them, please, in the preparation of those reports. I am quite sure you will, but I am simply underlining it.”

Billam, of Edwards Court in Millbrook Lane, Exeter, was remanded into custody.

Devon and Cornwall Police previously confirmed that emergency services were called to an address in Millbrook Lane at approximately 12.40pm on 19 April.