Man jailed for shooting wife in head

PA

Monday, 27 September 2010

A man who shot his wife in the back of the head while their young son was watching was sentenced to life in prison today, said police.

Jamie Dunne, 30, of Ian Mikardo Way, Caversham, Reading, Berkshire, shot his wife Tracy in the head at their home on New Year's Day last year.

Mrs Dunne suffered serious head injuries.

Dunne was convicted of attempted murder after a trial at Reading Crown Court in June and was sentenced today, said Thames Valley Police.

He previously admitted possessing a shortened shotgun, criminal damage, possession of a firearm with intent to cause fear of violence, and unlawful wounding.

Detective Constable Jim Howden, from Reading CID, said: "This was clearly a very serious and senseless act, carried out in front of a young child.

"The incident resulted in both serious physical injuries and long-term emotional trauma to Mrs Dunne.

"This sentence cannot undo the suffering caused by Mr Dunne to his wife over many years through his alcoholism and behaviour towards her.

"However, I hope she will now be able to start a new life with her son, knowing that justice has been done."

David Edwards, CPS case lawyer, said: "Mr Dunne's conviction for attempting to murder his wife by shooting her in the back of her head with an illegal sawn-off shotgun follows a professional and thorough investigation and robust prosecution, through team working by the CPS and police.

"The case demonstrates both the terrifying consequences of possessing illegal firearms and domestic violence, even more so when the two are combined.

"The fact that Mrs Dunne somehow survived this ordeal is wholly down to fortune.

"The most harrowing aspect of the case is the fact that the whole incident was witnessed by the couple's son.

"His bravery in being able to give his account to the police cannot be underestimated.

"There can be no better example of the suitability of special measures, such as his being able to have his evidence given through the playing of his video-recorded interview, which meant that he did not have to give live evidence in court."

From: http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/crime/man-jailed-for-shooting-wife-in-head-2090912.html