A 95-year-old Warrington man was given a suspended sentence today after admitting the attempted murder of his wife.
Denver Beddows, of Dam Lane, Woolston appeared at Liverpool Crown Court to be sentenced after pleading guilty at an earlier hearing. He was given a two year sentence suspended for two years.
The court was told that shortly before 11am on Saturday February 4 police were called to an address in Dam Lane.
On arrival paramedics were treating 88-year-old Olive Beddows. She had received significant and life changing injuries after being attacked at their home. The suspect was identified to police as her husband of 64 years, Denver Beddows.
Denver, who had been looking after his wife with the help of his family, had alerted them that he had attacked his wife.
They immediately went round to the address to find Olive seriously injured and Denver in a distressed state. A thorough investigation took place into the tragic incident which saw Beddows charged with attempted murder.
DI Paul Hughes said: “Olive amazingly survived her attack although she does remain in hospital with serious injuries. She has shown amazing determination and courage to provide herself with the best opportunity for recovery with the help of marvellous medical staff.”
Reflecting on the case, DI Hughes said: “This case has been difficult for all involved and has significantly impacted on Olive, Denver and their family, the ordeal has truly tested them. The courage they have shown from receiving the phone call from Denver on the Saturday morning, through to sentencing has been truly remarkable.
“Out of the blue, lives changed on that Saturday back in February and I hope they can now begin to try and rebuild their lives and eventually come to terms with the events of that heart-breaking day, which had such a devastating impact on all family members.”
The family said in a statement: “As a family we are trying to come to terms with the tragic events that took place on February 4.
“The last 12 months have been particularly difficult, as we all attempted to cope with Mum’s mental illness, which is still yet to be diagnosed.
“At present we are supporting both Mum and Dad, and ask for some privacy whilst we come to terms with the situation.”
