BRUTAL MURDER OF IAN RAWLE IN BRAUNTON: CHRISTINE RAWLE SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS

A tragic and violent incident unfolded in Braunton, resulting in the death of 72-year-old Ian Rawle at the hands of his wife, Christine Rawle, aged 70. On Friday, 22 March, Christine Rawle was formally sentenced to a minimum of 17 years in prison after being convicted of her husband's murder at Exeter Crown Court. Despite her initial plea of not guilty, the jury found her guilty following a detailed trial that concluded on the same day.

The court proceedings revealed that police were summoned to a remote residence in Knowle, Braunton, on Sunday, 21 August, 2022, after reports indicated that a man had been stabbed. Emergency services, including police and ambulance crews, responded swiftly to the scene. Despite their efforts to save Mr. Rawle, he was declared dead at approximately 3:15 pm. The autopsy confirmed that he had sustained a single stab wound to his back, which caused a punctured lung, ultimately leading to his death.

During the trial, it was disclosed that Christine Rawle admitted to stabbing her husband during a phone call with her daughter, who then contacted emergency services. It was also revealed that Rawle had called a friend prior to the police arriving, requesting her to look after her animals. In that conversation, she reportedly expressed frustration, saying, “he just kept on and on at me,” and mentioned that “the police are on their way.”

Testimony and evidence presented in court highlighted a history of longstanding difficulties between the couple. It was noted that they had previously engaged in mutual assaults, property damage, and acts of discourtesy towards each other. The jury's verdict of murder was supported by these details, and Judge James Adkin sentenced Christine Rawle to life imprisonment with a minimum term of 17 years. She had been held in custody since her arrest on the day of the incident.

In his sentencing remarks, Judge Adkin described the attack as “wholly unprovoked,” emphasizing that her husband was completely defenseless at the time. The judge criticized her for not calling an ambulance, ignoring her husband's pleas for help, and instead focusing on the welfare of her animals after the stabbing. He further stated, “The main reason you killed your husband was because you have an ungovernable temper.”

Detective Inspector Ilona Rosson expressed her thoughts on the case, stating, “We welcome the verdict reached by members of the jury who have heard the evidence presented in the trial and deliberated carefully before making their decision. I would like to thank and commend all those who have been involved in what has been a complex investigation, including those who provided their expertise, evidence and the prosecution team. The family and friends of Ian have had to endure a tragic loss, and I hope the outcome and sentence given will bring some closure to them. My thoughts, and those of the entire investigation team, are with them at this time.”

Authorities also issued a reminder that support is available for those affected by domestic violence or related issues. They urged anyone in immediate danger to call 999, and for non-emergencies, to visit the police website at www.devon-cornwall.police.uk for resources and assistance. They highlighted the “Ask For ANI” scheme, available at Boots and independent pharmacies, where individuals can discreetly seek help by asking staff for “ANI” and be taken to a private room to contact authorities or support agencies. Additional support lines include the National Domestic Abuse Helpline at 0808 2000 247 and the National Men’s Advice Line at https://mensadviceline.org.uk.