A NORTHFIELD woman who stabbed her partner with a kitchen knife will serve at least 12 years behind bars after being sentenced on Monday (December 1).
Susan Hughes, of Norrington Road, was handed the term after being found guilty following a four-week trial at Birmingham Crown Court back in August.
Barry Wilkins, 71, was stabbed 11 times on November 24 last year, suffering injuries to his stomach and shoulder.
He never recovered from those wounds and died in hospital five weeks later on New Year’s Eve.
The 48-year-old was initially charged with intent to cause grievous bodily harm but she was charged with his murder after his death.
Hughes’ defence team claimed a loss of control and diminished responsibility during the trial, stating she suffered from Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder. But the jury rejected the defence’s claims and unanimously found her guilty of murder.
Det Sgt Harry May, from West Midlands’ homicide case progression team, said Hughes had shown no remorse since Mr Wilkins’ 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.”
He added she called 999 whilst she was attacking her victim and was heard by the operator physically and verbally abusing Mr Wilkins.
“Once again, 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 try to rebuild their lives,” added DS May.
