Husband jailed for wife’s murder after abuse revelation

Ryan Timms, 44, of Hartshill, near Nuneaton, has been imprisoned for the murder of his wife. This sentencing followed the discovery by police of “inconsistencies” in his account of how she sustained her injuries. At Warwick Crown Court, Timms was handed a life sentence, with a stipulation to serve a minimum of 19 years. On July 31, 2023, officers received a notification from ambulance crews concerning a woman in cardiac arrest, who her husband, Timms, reportedly found attempting suicide. Police stated that the woman, whose name was not released, later died in hospital. Charges were brought against Timms after post-mortem examinations indicated that a neck hold was the probable cause of death. A jury at the same court found Timms guilty earlier this month, and he was sentenced on Monday. Officers reported that police and ambulance personnel who spoke with him at the scene in July 2023 identified “inconsistencies in the story he was providing.” Specifically, Timms claimed he had moved his wife downstairs after finding her, but officers noted that the staircase was steep, narrow, and cluttered with items, making such a task difficult. Detective Chief Inspector Collette O’Keefe commended the “professional curiosity” of the police and ambulance workers. This led to a thorough investigation into the couple’s life, which uncovered domestic abuse. Ms. O’Keefe stated, “She had suffered in silence for many years.” She added, “She kept the domestic abuse hidden from family, friends, and work colleagues. It was evident that she had wanted to leave.” The police force also mentioned that its website contains information on how individuals experiencing domestic abuse or violence can find assistance.