Man given hospital order for manslaughter
A 51-year-old man has today [Friday 3 September] been given a hospital and restriction order for killing his father in Plymouth.
Shaun Powney, aged 51, appeared via video link at Plymouth Crown Court today, where he was sentenced after admitting the manslaughter of 78-year-old Patrick Powney, by diminished responsibility.
Police had been called at 9.55pm on Thursday 18 February to an address in Shelley Way, following reports of concern for the welfare of a man.
Patrick Powney was located inside the property having sustained multiple serious injuries to his torso and head and was taken to Derriford Hospital where he died a short time later.
Forensic enquires determined that Mr Powney had sustained un-survivable injuries as a result of an attack, during which he received multiple blows to the head.
Shaun Powney was arrested at the scene on suspicion of assault causing grievous bodily harm and was re-arrested whilst in police custody on suspicion of murder. He was later moved to Langdon Hospital where he was detained under the Mental Health Act and was charged with murder on 17 March 2021.
Shaun Powney pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility at Plymouth Crown Court on 7 June.
Judge Johnson, today [3 September] sentenced Shaun Powney to a hospital and restriction order.
Senior investigating officer, Detective Inspector Lee Nattrass said: “This has been a detailed investigation which has involved several months of psychiatric evaluation of the offender alongside the criminal investigation.
“Shaun Powney had previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility, a plea that the prosecution accepted after considering expert evidence from forensic psychiatrists.
“A hospital and restriction order means that Shaun Powney will not be considered for release back into the community until it is deemed safe for him to do so, although he would always be subject of a supervision order.
“I would like to offer my continuing sympathies to the family of Patrick and hope that todays sentence can help them move forward together”.
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