Like a "very bad detective novel" is how Judge Christopher Elwen described the facts of this case, at the Truro Crown Court. Linda Lees pleaded guilty to three counts of slipping drugs into her husband's food and drink after their relationship deteriorated. Despite this, her husband pleaded for her not to be sent to prison, for the sake of their 21-year-old daughter. Taking this plea into account, Mrs Lees was given a suspended prison sentence of 49 weeks.

It seems that Mrs Lees was suffering from depression after the breakdown of the 25 year relationship, and that her behaviour was more akin to a cry for help, rather than a serious attempt to kill her husband. What are we to learn from this? Well, firstly it is a reminder (if one were needed) of the strength of feelings that a relationship breakdown can cause, and the irrational behaviour that can result. Secondly, I think that the husband's actions are a heartening story of the importance of family in general, and children in particular. Hopefully Mrs Lees will get the help that she needs.

[Thanks to Jailhouselawyer for bringing this story to my attention.]