Woman Driven to Suicide by Abusive Husband Left Note Saying 'Couldn't Take Any More'
A woman was tragically driven to suicide after suffering years of extensive and escalating domestic and sexual violence at the hands of her husband, a court has heard in harrowing detail. Tarryn Baird was just 34 years old when she ended her life at the family home in Swindon in November 2017, leaving behind a poignant note expressing her despair.
Allegations of Coercive Control and Violence
Christopher Trybus, now 43, is currently on trial at Winchester Crown Court, charged with manslaughter in connection with Tarryn's death. Prosecutors allege that he subjected her to extensive and escalating controlling, coercive, and manipulative behavior, including sexual violence, throughout their marriage. Trybus, of Swindon, Wiltshire, denies all charges, including manslaughter, controlling and coercive behavior, and rape.
The coercive control charge specifies that Trybus controlled Tarryn through multiple means:
- Using and threatening violence towards her
- Sexually assaulting her
- Monitoring her whereabouts constantly
- Limiting her access to finances
- Threatening to reveal private information to her family
- Isolating her from her family and support network
Background of the Relationship
The court heard that both Tarryn and Trybus were born in South Africa and moved to the United Kingdom in 2007. They married two years later and settled in Swindon. Tarryn held several jobs over the years, eventually working from home as an administrator for Trybus' software company, which required him to travel overseas frequently.
Prosecutor Tom Little KC told jurors that the alleged abuse occurred over a sustained period behind closed doors during the course of their marriage. He emphasized that the defendant sought to control many aspects of their relationship, even when he was abroad on business trips.
The Prosecution's Case
Mr. Little stated: 'The defendant sought to and did control many aspects of their relationship, even when he was abroad, as he often was. But it was the control and physical violence meted out to her including sexual violence and the threat of and fear of physical and sexual violence on his part towards her and over time which led to a deterioration in her already weakened mental state and was, we say, a cause – not the sole cause – of her deciding that she should take her own life.'
He continued: 'She did so in their own home. She had not managed to escape from him, despite seriously considering doing so on a number of occasions. However, we say that constricted by his control she could never go through with leaving him, no doubt we suggest, fearing the consequences if she were to decide to do so, and instead she eventually stopped his control over her in the only way she felt she could – by taking her own life.'
Final Hours and Heartbreaking Note
The court learned that on the morning of her death, November 28, 2017, Tarryn had spoken to a mental health team, expressing thoughts of suicide. Later that day, she called the non-emergency police number 101, asking them to send someone to find her body.
She left a heartbreaking note that read: 'To my family, I am so sorry but I just couldn't take it anymore. I know you may not understand this but I just can't explain the dark cloud that is over me. Please don't let this break you but know I am now free. Nothing any of you could have done could have changed this please just know that. I love you and please forgive me.'
Mr. Little told jurors they must ask themselves 'what it was she just could not take any more if it wasn't the defendant's controlling and coercive manipulation.'
Trial Proceedings
Trybus, a software consultant and developer, is currently on bail as the trial continues. The proceedings are expected to last six to eight weeks, during which the jury will hear extensive evidence about the nature of the relationship and the circumstances leading to Tarryn's death.
The case highlights the devastating impact of domestic violence and coercive control, particularly how such abuse can erode a victim's mental health to the point of desperation. It serves as a stark reminder of the importance of recognizing the signs of abusive relationships and providing adequate support to those at risk.
If you or someone you know is struggling with thoughts of suicide or experiencing domestic abuse, please reach out for help. Support services are available 24/7 to provide emotional assistance and guidance.
