Wife's Suicide Linked to Coercive Control and Sexual Violence, Court Hears
A man controlled his wife through a pattern of physical and sexual violence, which ultimately led her to take her own life, a court has been told. Christopher Trybus, 43, of Swindon, Wiltshire, is accused of the manslaughter of Tarryn Baird, who died by hanging in November 2017 at the age of 34.
Charges and Allegations in the Case
Trybus faces charges at Winchester Crown Court, including manslaughter, controlling and coercive behaviour, and two counts of rape. The prosecution alleges that his actions created an environment of fear and isolation that contributed directly to Ms Baird's death.
Tom Little KC, prosecuting, told the jury that Trybus engaged in extensive and escalating controlling, coercive, and manipulative behaviour, which included sexual violence through two rapes and other sexual assaults. He stated that this abuse occurred over a sustained period behind closed doors during their marriage.
Details of the Coercive Control
The coercive control charge specifies that Trybus controlled Ms Baird through:
- Using and threatening violence towards her
- Sexually assaulting her
- Monitoring her whereabouts
- Limiting her access to finances
- Threatening to reveal private information to her family
- Isolating her from her family
Mr Little explained that Trybus controlled many aspects of their relationship, even from abroad, using the threat and fear of physical and sexual violence. This led to a deterioration in her already weakened mental state and was a cause of her decision to end her life.
The Tragic Outcome and Final Message
Ms Baird, who worked at an opticians, left a note expressing her despair. It read: "To my family, I am so sorry but I just couldn't take it any more. I know you may not understand this but I just can't explain the dark cloud that is over me. Please don't let this break you but know I am now free. Nothing any of you could have done could have changed this, please just know that. I love you and please forgive me."
The prosecution argues that Ms Baird felt constricted by Trybus's control and could never follow through with leaving him, likely fearing the consequences. Instead, she ended his control over her in the only way she felt she could—by taking her own life in their home.
Background and Current Proceedings
The couple, both originally from South Africa, moved to the UK in 2007 and married in 2009. Trybus, who works as a software consultant and developer, denies all charges. The trial continues at Winchester Crown Court.
For mental health support, contact the Samaritans on 116 123, email them at jo@samaritans.org, or visit samaritans.org to find your nearest branch.
