Man Accused of Wife's Manslaughter Claims Audio of 'Abuse' Was Consensual Kinky Sex
A man on trial for the manslaughter of his wife, who died by suicide, has claimed that an audio recording presented as evidence of domestic abuse was actually a consensual "kinky bondage type sex" session. Christopher Trybus, 43, from Swindon, Wiltshire, faces multiple charges, including manslaughter, controlling and coercive behaviour, and two counts of rape, all of which he denies.
Prosecution Alleges 'Tsunami' of Abuse
At Winchester Crown Court, prosecutor Tom Little KC described Trybus's alleged actions as a "tsunami" of abuse against his wife, Tarryn Baird, 34. The prosecution claims Trybus subjected Ms Baird to extensive controlling, coercive, and manipulative behaviour, including sexual violence, monitoring her movements, limiting her finances, and isolating her from family. Ms Baird was found dead at their home in November 2017, with her death ruled as hanging.
Defence Argues False Allegations Due to Mental Health Issues
Defence barrister Katy Thorne KC told the jury that Trybus denies all allegations, asserting he loved and cherished his wife. She argued that Ms Baird presented a "facade" to health professionals due to longstanding mental health problems, making false claims to seek attention. Ms Thorne highlighted instances where Ms Baird reported injuries while Trybus was out of the country, suggesting her allegations were unreliable.
Consensual Sex Life and Audio Recording Disputed
Ms Thorne stated that the couple had a healthy, consensual marital sex life involving practices like bondage and rough sex. She claimed an injury to Ms Baird's neck was from a "collar" worn during sex, and the audio recording was of consensual "kinky bondage type sex." The defence contends that Ms Baird's claims of being controlled or abused are untrue and that her suicide resulted from mental health issues and withdrawn services, not Trybus's actions.
The trial continues as the jury deliberates on the evidence presented in this tragic case.
