Christopher Trybus found not guilty of rape and manslaughter after wife Tarryn Baird took her own life

A man cleared of the rape and manslaughter of his wife, who took her own life, has said "domestic abuse is a very real and serious issue, and victims must always be supported".

Warning: This story contains descriptions some readers may find distressing, including references to suicide.

Christopher Trybus, of Swindon, Wiltshire, stood trial accused of causing the death of Tarryn Baird, who died aged 34 in November 2017.

The 44-year-old defendant also faced charges at Winchester Crown Court of controlling and coercive behaviour and two charges of rape.

He has been cleared of all charges.

Speaking outside court and accompanied by his current wife, Mr Trybus said: "After three police investigations over the course of 10 years, I'm relieved that the jury has carefully considered the evidence and reached the correct verdict today.

"I want to thank my wife, my family, and my friends for their unwavering support - and my legal team for their hard work and dedication throughout the process.

"This has had a profound impact on my life and on those closest to me. It's been an incredibly difficult experience.

"I would also like to acknowledge that domestic abuse is a very real and serious issue, and victims must always be supported.

"Right now, I'll focus on moving forward and rebuilding my life with my family."

It was the first case of its kind in England and Wales.

Mr Trybus, who denied the offences, claimed his wife made the allegations as a result of mental health issues, including a probable diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after she witnessed violent car-jackings in South Africa, where the couple grew up.

The defendant, who runs an IT business, also said he was out of the country when some of the incidents were alleged to have taken place.

The judge, Mr Justice Linden, thanked the jurors for their service and told them: "It was a difficult and sad case and the stakes were high for the families involved so we understand your task has not been an easy one and no one should underestimate your role in these proceedings."

Describing how he felt about Ms Baird in light of the allegations, Mr Trybus told the court: "It's such a complex feeling, I loved her dearly and she has gone and said all of these things.

"At no point has this ever happened, it's such a mix of emotions, I am upset that she said these things but she is not here so I can't be upset with her, it's not something I can put into words."

Anyone feeling emotionally distressed or suicidal can call Samaritans for help on 116 123 or visit samaritans.org in the UK. In the US, call the Samaritans branch in your area or 1 (800) 273-TALK.

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