Man admits sisters' manslaughter in Devon village

67 year old Richard Law will be sentenced in July

Author: Claire Hayhurst, PAPublished 16th May 2025

A man has admitted killing his sister at his home in a Devon village.

67 year old Richard Law, from Lark Rise in Newton Poppleford, pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of 70 year old Judith Law, during a hearing at Exeter Crown Court today (Friday 16th May).

Devon and Cornwall Police say Ms Law died at a property in January.

Judge Anna Richardson told Law: "Your case is listed for you to be sentenced on July 24th.

"You will be brought to court on that occasion. Between now and then, please help any doctor that needs to see and speak to you."

The judge added that Law would remain in hospital.

Prosecuting, Jo Martin KC confirmed that Law had previously been charged with murder but his guilty plea to manslaughter was acceptable to the Crown.

Two doctors will prepare reports on Law before his sentencing date, the court heard.

Law will be sentenced at Exeter Crown Court on July 24th.

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