Devon & Cornwall Police News site

A 70-year-old woman from Braunton has today, Friday 22 March, been sentenced to a minimum of 17 years for murder.   

Christine Rawle was convicted of killing her husband, 72-year-old Ian Rawle, after she had pleaded not guilty to murder at Exeter Crown Court.   

At the trial, which concluded today, the jury found her guilty of murder and she was sentenced to a life in prison, to serve a minimum of 17 years, less time already served.  

The court heard that police were called to an isolated address in Knowle, Braunton, on Sunday 21 August, 2022, following reports that a man had been stabbed.  

Both the police and ambulance service attended, but despite their efforts to save Mr Rawle, he was pronounced dead at around 3.15pm.  

He had sustained a single knife wound to his back which was later found to have a punctured lung.  

The court heard that the defendant had acknowledged that she had stabbed her husband at the time when she was on a call to her daughter, who called emergency services. 

It was also heard that Rawle had also called a friend prior to the police arriving to ask her to look after her animals. During this conversation, it was reported that she had said ‘he just kept on and on at me’ and that ‘the police are on their way’.    

It was reported that there were long standing difficulties between the two and that both had previously assaulted each other, damaged property belonging to the other, and acted discourteously towards one another. 

The jury found her guilty of murder and His Honour Judge James Adkin sentenced her to life, to serve a minimum of 17 years. She had been remanded in custody since her arrest on the day of the incident.

The judge said: “It was a wholly unprovoked attack when he was completely defenceless."

He also said that she had not called an ambulance, ignored his pleas for help and instead prioritised the welfare of her animals after the attack.

He went on to say: "The main reason you killed your husband was because you have an ungovernable temper."

Detective Inspector Ilona Rosson said: “We welcome the verdict reached by members of the jury who have heard the evidence presented in the trial and deliberated carefully before making their decision. 

“I would like to thank and commend all those who have been involved in what has been a complex investigation, including those who provided their expertise, evidence and the prosecution team. 

“The family and friends of Ian have had to endure a tragic loss and I hope the outcome reached and sentence given will bring some closure to them. 

“My thoughts, and those of the entire investigation team, are with them at this time.”   

If you’ve been affected by anything in this news article, support is available. 

If you or anyone else is in immediate danger, call 999. 

For non-emergency reports please use our website, where you will also find more information about domestic abuse and who can help www.devon-cornwall.police.uk  
Look out for branches of Boots and other independent pharmacies which display the “Ask For ANI” poster (Assistance Needed Immediately). At these locations you can discreetly ask staff for “ANI” and they will take you to a private room where you can contact the police or a support agency. 
National Domestic Abuse Helpline (24 hrs) 0808 2000 247  
National Men’s Advice Line https://mensadviceline.org.uk