Woman Disclosed Husband's Abuse to Friend Months Before Suicide, Court Hears
In a harrowing case unfolding at Winchester Crown Court, a woman who took her own life had previously confided in a friend about suffering abuse at the hands of her husband. Christopher Trybus, 43, of Swindon, Wiltshire, stands accused of the manslaughter of Tarryn Baird, who died by hanging in November 2017 at the age of 34.
Multiple Charges Including Rape and Coercive Control
Trybus faces additional charges of controlling and coercive behaviour, along with two counts of rape alleged to have occurred in October and November 2016. The coercive control charge details a pattern of alleged abuse, including the use and threat of violence, sexual assault, monitoring Ms Baird's movements, restricting her access to finances, threatening to disclose private information to her family, and isolating her from loved ones.
Prosecutor Tom Little KC presented text message exchanges between Ms Baird and her friend Elizabeth Clarke, known as Libby, which revealed the extent of the alleged abuse. The messages, dating from January 2017, show Ms Baird describing how Trybus had "snapped" and shown a "different side" of himself.
Friend's Testimony Reveals Bruises and Hospital Visits
Mrs Clarke, who first met Ms Baird while working together at an optical firm in Swindon, testified that their friendship deepened in 2017 as Ms Baird endured significant personal struggles. She described seeing bruises on Ms Baird's eye and abdomen, along with photographic evidence of injuries on her phone.
In one particularly telling exchange from February 2017, Ms Baird cancelled a meeting with Mrs Clarke, explaining she was "feeling really sore today from earlier in the week" and that her doctor had diagnosed her with concussion. She added: "Still feel groggy and spaced out."
Attempts to Cover Up Abuse and Seek Help
The court heard how Ms Baird attempted to conceal the abuse from her husband. In April 2017, she asked Mrs Clarke to provide an alibi, writing: "Please could you do me a favour. If it ever comes up, please say I was with you today." When questioned, Ms Baird explained: "Chris tracked me at the hospital so need cover. Just a bit bruised and sore but I will heal, I always do."
By May 2017, the situation had escalated to the point where Ms Baird asked her friend to contact Women's Aid to inquire about available spaces for her. She later confessed she had planned to leave home but "broke down" and couldn't follow through.
Alcohol as Pain Management and Lifestyle Details
Mrs Clarke testified about Ms Baird's drinking habits, revealing that the deceased had explained she drank alcohol to "numb the pain" after being beaten by her husband. When asked to clarify, Mrs Clarke stated: "Being beaten."
Defence barrister Katy Thorne KC questioned Mrs Clarke about the couple's affluent lifestyle, noting they lived in a large house, drove Porsche vehicles, and took "fancy holidays." Mrs Clarke confirmed these details but added that Ms Baird seemed to be "rattling around in a big house on her own."
Prosecution's Case and Background
Earlier in the trial, Mr Little alleged that Trybus engaged in "extensive and escalating controlling, coercive and manipulative behaviour, including sexual violence." The prosecution contends that Trybus, who worked as a software consultant and developer with frequent international travel, is "legally responsible" for Ms Baird's death.
Both Trybus and Ms Baird originally hailed from South Africa, relocating to the UK in 2007 and marrying in 2009. Trybus denies all charges, and the trial continues with further evidence expected in the coming days.
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