Ex-Cop Guilty of Manslaughter After Shocking Death in Car Park
Timothy Brehmer, 41, was sentenced at Salisbury Crown Court on Wednesday 28 October 2020. The former Dorset Police officer was found not guilty of murder but pleaded guilty to manslaughter following the tragic death of Claire Parry.
Fatal Incident Outside Horns Inn
Dorset Police were called at 3.39pm on Saturday 9 May 2020 to the Horns Inn car park on Christchurch Road. Ambulance crews reported two people needing urgent medical help. Ms Parry, who had arranged to meet Brehmer, was rushed to Royal Bournemouth Hospital.
Tragically, Claire Parry died the next morning. The post-mortem revealed she suffered a fatal brain injury caused by neck compression.
Cop Arrested at Scene, Later Charged
Brehmer, a serving police constable seconded to the National Police Air Service, was arrested at the scene on suspicion of attempted murder. Police found self-inflicted injuries on his arms and he was treated at Poole Hospital.
Following Ms Parry’s death, he was re-arrested and charged with murder. During the trial, Brehmer admitted his unlawful actions caused her death but claimed he did not intend to kill or seriously harm her.
Judge Details Loss of Control Over Affair Discovery
Judge Mr Justice Jacobs said the sentencing was based on Brehmer’s loss of self-control after discovering Mrs Parry sent a text to his wife exposing their affair, rather than his intent to kill.
Brehmer was off duty at the time. He was dismissed from Dorset Police after a misconduct hearing on 16 September 2020.
Police Statement: Heartfelt Condolences and Praise for Investigation
“Timothy Brehmer’s actions on 9 May 2020 have devastated Claire Parry’s family and loved ones,” said Detective Chief Inspector Richard Dixey of the Major Crime Investigation Team.
“Our thoughts remain with everyone affected. We thank Claire’s family for their support throughout the investigation and trial. We hope the court’s conclusion offers them some comfort.
“We also commend all involved for their professional handling of this difficult case.”
