Exeter man jailed for manslaughter of partner in stabbing

EXETER MAN JAILED FOR MANSLAUGHTER OF PARTNER IN STABBING

A 54-year-old man from Wonford Street, Exeter, named Michael Bird was sentenced to nine years in prison after being convicted of manslaughter in the case of his partner, Janine Tiley, who was 43.

The event occurred on 14 July, as the couple was preparing a barbecue at their residence, during which Bird stabbed Ms Tiley 17 times.

Evidence presented in court showed that Bird acknowledged the stabbing and that he later attempted to take his own life.

It was also revealed that the couple had been together for 21 years and had two daughters, aged 21 and 17.

Police records indicate that officers were called to their home 20 times over a four-year period due to Ms Tiley’s drunken and disruptive behavior.

According to reports, Bird stated that Ms Tiley attacked him after he saw her adding vodka to her wine and pouring the rest away.

During the incident, she struck him with a heavy object and then grabbed a knife, which Bird managed to disarm before fatally stabbing her.

Afterwards, Bird visited a pub, then returned home to buy flowers, which he placed on her body.

The following morning, his daughter discovered Bird covered in blood after he had slit his throat and wrists.

His lawyer argued that Bird was a hardworking family man who had been trying to support Ms Tiley as she struggled with alcohol, fearing her continued drinking might result in her dependence and possible wheelchair use.