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Woman Sentenced After Living Beside Deceased Husband’s Body for Three Weeks
A 61-year-old woman has been convicted and sentenced after authorities discovered she had been sleeping next to her late husband’s decomposing body for nearly three weeks.
Discovery of the Deceased
John Blackwell, aged 71, passed away around October 1, 2025, reportedly from a heart attack linked to a chronic heart condition. However, his remains were only found by police on October 21, after his partner, Sally Smithson, failed to report his death.
Court Proceedings and Charges
Smithson pleaded guilty to the charge of obstructing the lawful and respectful burial of a body. During the hearing at Oxford Crown Court, prosecutor Charles Ward-Jackson described the body as being in an advanced state of decomposition when discovered on the bedroom floor. The deceased was found lying flat on his back, unclothed, with no visible injuries.
Background of the Relationship
The court was informed that the couple’s relationship was marked by volatility, including frequent drunken disputes and episodes of domestic violence. Smithson had prior convictions related to violence against Mr. Blackwell, highlighting a troubled history between them.
Suspicious Behavior and Attempts to Conceal
Neighbors reported unusual conduct from Smithson during the weeks following Mr. Blackwell’s death, including her peering through windows. Additionally, text messages were sent from Mr. Blackwell’s phone posthumously, apparently in an effort to mask the truth about his passing. Smithson told acquaintances that her husband was either out or recuperating from a hospital visit.
The couple’s cleaner, noticing the repeated cancellations of her visits and growing concerned, alerted the police on October 21. Upon arrival, officers were told by Smithson that Mr. Blackwell had died three weeks earlier and was upstairs.
Defense and Sentencing
Peter Du Feu, representing Smithson, explained that she had contacted the coroner’s office twice on the weekend of Mr. Blackwell’s death, indicating some initial recognition of the situation. However, she subsequently avoided confronting the reality. He emphasized her remorse and acceptance of responsibility.
Judge Michael Gledhill KC sentenced Smithson to 14 months in prison, condemning the act as a serious violation of public decency. He remarked on the tragedy of the case, noting that Smithson had previously led a respectable life before the relationship’s deterioration. The judge underscored the gravity of sleeping beside a deceased partner’s body for such an extended period.
Context and Broader Implications
This case highlights the complex dynamics of domestic relationships and the psychological impact of grief and denial. According to recent studies, approximately 1 in 5 adults experience complicated grief, which can lead to unusual behaviors following the loss of a loved one. Similar incidents, though rare, underscore the importance of mental health support and community vigilance.
Authorities encourage individuals facing domestic difficulties or bereavement to seek professional help and to report concerns about vulnerable persons to prevent such tragic outcomes.
