Man given hospital order after admitting Devon uncle's manslaughter
37 year old Corin Harper-Davis killed 63 year old Jonathan Harper
A 37 year old man who killed his 63-year-old uncle in East Devon has been given a hospital order.
Corin Harper-Davis from Hither Green in London, has been sentenced at Exeter Crown Court today (Tuesday 22nd April) after admitting Jonathan Harper's manslaughter by diminished responsibility.
What happened?
Mr Harper was found at a property in Brampford Speke last July, suffering a cardiac arrest and having sustained four stab wounds.
He died at the scene, despite efforts from emergency services.
The court heard the mental health of Harper-Davis had been steadily declining over a period of months, and was experiencing a psychotic illness at the time he attacked his uncle.
His relative had been at the property to provide him with help and support.
On the evening of the incident, Harper-Davis and the victim had been shopping, before the defendant suddenly became aggressive, attacking his uncle without warning or provocation.
Police were called and Harper-Davis was arrested at a nearby property, having run away from the scene.
Harper-Davis pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility at Exeter Crown Court on 30th January.
Her Honour Judge Anna Richardson today sentenced Harper-Davis to a hospital order, under Section 37 of the Mental Health Act, with a Section 41 restriction.
He'll continue to be detained in a secure unit, where he has been since October 2024.
Senior Investigating Officer Detective Inspector Guy Biggar, from Devon and Cornwall Police’s Major Crime Investigation Team, said:
“This is a truly tragic case, and I would like to pass on my thanks and condolences to Jonathan’s partner and son, both of whom have shown real bravery and compassion at an incredibly difficult time.
“I would also like to thank those other members of the Harper family who supported our investigation from the outset and the members of the community in Brampford Speke who rushed to Jonathan’s aid and engaged with Corin until police units arrived.”
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