WHICKHAM MAN JAILED FOR MANSLAUGHTER OF 45-YEAR WIFE
A 74-year-old man named Alan Claxton, who lives in Hillside, Whickham, has received a nine-year prison sentence after being convicted of manslaughter.The court was informed that in 2019, Claxton assaulted his wife, Wendy, which led to her falling down stairs and sustaining fatal injuries, including 19 broken ribs, a fractured spine, and a ruptured aorta.
Despite denying the charges, the jury at Newcastle Crown Court found Claxton guilty, and he was sentenced on Thursday.
Northumbria Police’s Detective Chief Inspector Graeme Barr stated that Claxton had been deliberately dishonest, offering inconsistent explanations and attempting to hide his actions by claiming Wendy’s death was accidental.
The investigation revealed evidence of persistent alcohol-fuelled domestic violence throughout their relationship, with detectives noting that Wendy had become increasingly worried about her husband's drinking and the dangers it posed.
Initially suspected of murder, Claxton’s case was later downgraded to manslaughter following medical evidence that confirmed the injuries were not accidental.
Claxton tried to dismiss responsibility by falsely asserting that Wendy had fallen because she was intoxicated, but this was disproven.
Authorities concluded that Wendy’s death was linked to ongoing domestic abuse, often involving alcohol, carried out by Claxton.
This case sheds light on the tragic consequences of domestic violence, with police highlighting that although Wendy had limited family, she was a cherished member of her community.
