'Amnesia' man killed his wife

2003-11-17 17:25

Johannesburg - The High Court here on Monday convicted Simon Patrick Starke, 44, of murdering his wife, Elda, the judgment coming five days before the first anniversary of her death.

Starke of Krugersdorp pleaded not guilty to the charge a week ago and claimed he could not remember the incident because of amnesia.

In handing down judgment, the High Court said Starke strangled his wife and slashed her throat on November 22 last year, while in full possession of his faculties. She died from brain injuries and a cut throat.

The court also accepted the proposition by State advocate Deon van Wyk that the physical evidence suggested the fatal attack had taken place over a period of time and in two rooms and a passage.

The concentration of injuries to her face and neck indicated the attacker was in control of his actions.

Starke will be sentenced on January 8.

- SAPA