Birmingham Woman Guilty Of Murder

Susan Hughes, 48 of Norrington Road in Northfield, was found guilty after a four week trial at Birmingham Crown Court and will be sentenced on 3 October 2014 pending psychiatric reports.

 

Barry Wilkins, 71, was stabbed eleven times in total, including injuries to his stomach and shoulder on 24 November last year. Barry, despite having extensive surgery, did not recover and died in hospital five weeks later on New Years’ Eve 2013. 

 

Susan was initially charged with intent to cause gbh but was then charged with murder following Barry’s death. 

 

During the trial, Hughes’ defence team claimed a loss of control and diminished responsibility, stating that she suffered from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. However the jury rejected the defence’s claims and unanimously found her guilty of murder. 

 

Detective Sergeant Harry May, from the Homicide Case Progression Team, said: "Susan showed no remorse since Barry’s death or during the trial. 

 

"He was a generous man who gave Susan Hughes a roof over her head, she repaid him in this brutal way. In a drunken argument she armed herself with a large kitchen knife and violently attacked Barry in the bedroom. 

 

"Whilst she was attacking him she called the 999 system and whilst on the phone she was heard attacking Barry, physically and verbally abusing him." 

 

DS May added: "Today our thoughts go out to the family for the tragic loss of Barry. He was a loved popular man, liked by all his family and friends. 

 

"Barry’s family can now attempt to put this tragic event behind them and start to rebuild their lives." 

 

Barry’s sister, Linda Brewer added: "Barry was a lovely kind man and I feel justice has been done today - I would like to thank the police and prosecution team for their hard work."