A woman has been found guilty of murdering her “abusive” husband of 27 years after a heated argument turned deadly on their Devon farm. Christine Rawle, 70, a hypnotherapist and “horse whisperer”, stabbed her husband, Ian Rawle, 72, in the back as he pushed a barrow of horse manure, following a dispute over a piece of land she wanted to sell for a private eye operation.
Rawle claimed the attack was a result of years of physical and psychological abuse from her husband, describing it as a “constant burn of abuse”. She also argued that she feared for her life as her husband had his shotgun certificate revoked due to concerns about his violent tendencies.
During the trial at Exeter crown court, it was revealed that the couple had a tumultuous relationship, with reports to the police being made 14 times over the years. Rawle made two calls to the police in the weeks leading up to the incident, seeking help, but received no response.
The jury deliberated for only three hours and seven minutes before returning a guilty verdict. A domestic homicide review will investigate how the police and other agencies handled the couple’s case. Rawle is set to be sentenced on Friday afternoon.
Rawle’s defense argued that her actions were a result of complex post-traumatic stress disorder and resistance to her husband’s controlling behavior. However, the prosecution cautioned the jury against believing the “poisonous” claims about Ian Rawle, who was not present to defend himself.
The case has sparked discussions about the role of law enforcement in cases of domestic abuse and the need for better intervention and support for victims. The tragic outcome serves as a reminder of the devastating consequences of domestic violence and the importance of addressing it effectively.