She had described hearing self-critical “voices”
A primary school teacher who stabbed her long-term partner and buried his body in their garden has post-traumatic stress disorder due to coercive control, a forensic psychologist has told a court. Dr John Cordwell told jurors it was possible that Fiona Beal may have experienced a “loss of control” caused by a fear of serious violence before she killed Nicholas Billingham, 42, in November 2021.
Saying that, in his opinion, Beal met the diagnostic criteria for severe depression and post-traumatic stress disorder, Dr Cordwell added that she had described hearing self-critical “voices” which were often but not always present. The expert witness said: “They weren’t auditory hallucination. He continued: “My opinion is that Miss Beal presents with PTSD and that PTSD is a result of the repeated experiences in the relationship with Mr Billingham, and the nature of that behaviour towards Miss Beal is likely to be considered coercive control.”
South Africa Latest News, South Africa Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Northampton: Murder accused has PTSD, says psychologistA forensic psychologist told a court Fiona Beal suffered PTSD due to coercive control.
Read more »
Stabbed Northampton student was 'kind young man' says mumTwo men have been charged with murder of the death of the University of Northampton student.
Read more »
Northampton forward Augustus signs new contractNorthampton Saints number eight Juarno Augustus agrees a new contract with the Premiership side.
Read more »
Mother of Northampton student stabbed to death describes 'kind and generous' son'I have lost something that nothing on this earth can replace'
Read more »
Taylor suffers first pro defeat as Cameron wins thriller on points in DublinKatie Taylor suffered a first career defeat in a terrific clash with Chantelle Cameron in Dublin, Ireland. The Northampton star defended her undisputed super-lightweight world titles, with Taylor u…
Read more »
Northampton: Murder accused has PTSD, says psychologistA forensic psychologist told a court Fiona Beal suffered PTSD due to coercive control.
Read more »