Six-Year Sentence for Man Who Killed Elderly Church Warden in Somerset

Six-Year Sentence for Man Who Killed Elderly Church Warden in Somerset

A man has been sentenced to six years in prison for the manslaughter of a beloved church warden in a quiet Somerset village. David Parish, 38, whose last known address was not recorded, escaped from what should have been a secure mental health unit in Taunton and made his way to the village of Broomfield on March 27, 2023.

Upon his departure from the unit, Parish altered his appearance by visiting a barber, sporting a newly short haircut and a clean-shaven face. This drastic change preceded a series of alarming incidents, including an attempt to pull a man from a car in a nearby National Trust property car park, which ultimately failed.

A short time later, Parish managed to gain access to the home of 86-year-old Beryl Purdy, known affectionately as Bez. In a tragic turn of events, he assaulted her with a golf umbrella, leading to her untimely death. Bez was pronounced dead at the scene due to the severe injuries she sustained.

During the court proceedings at Bristol Crown Court, prosecutor Anna Vigars KC highlighted the circumstances surrounding Parish’s actions. He pleaded guilty to manslaughter, citing diminished responsibility stemming from his severe mental health issues, specifically paranoid schizophrenia.

Following the sentencing, Bez Purdy’s family expressed their gratitude towards the police for their dedication in bringing the case to light. In their heartfelt statement, they articulated the profound agony they endure daily, feeling unable to protect their loved one from a brutal fate. They voiced their concerns about community safety regarding individuals with severe mental health issues, urging for a comprehensive review of protocols regarding such cases.

Detective Inspector Debbie Hatch, who was involved in the case, remarked on the tragic nature of the incident, emphasizing the emotional turmoil faced by Bez’s family and the broader implications it holds for the intersection of mental health and criminal justice. She commended all involved in the sensitive investigation, highlighting the importance of Bez’s legacy as a caring individual.

Additionally, after the ruling, a spokesperson from Somerset NHS Foundation Trust conveyed their thoughts and sympathies with both families affected by this devastating event. They emphasized the commitment to understanding the circumstances that led to this tragic incident, undertaking a full analysis of the unit’s operations to ensure improvements in care and patient support moving forward.

This case serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced when addressing mental health disparities and the critical balance needed between public safety and mental health treatment.