Guilt of woman killed mother, 93, while depressed

Grandmother Glynis Allen was found at her home in Broomhill, Sheffield, with a number of injuries including head wounds and broken ribs.

Her daughter Susan Potts, 64, pleaded guilty to manslaughter on the grounds of diministed responsibility and was handed an indefinite hospital order at Sheffield Crown Court.

After the sentence, her family released a statement explaining how Susan, of Uxbridge, Middlesex, was a “caring and loving daughter” who felt “regret and sadness” at the death of her mother.

The family statement read: “As a family, we are mourning the loss of a much-loved mother and grandma. Gladys was a central focus for our family and loved and respected by us all.

“Susan was always a caring and loving daughter, thoughtful and attentive to her mother’s needs; her only desire was that her mother should live out the rest of her life in happy independence, doing what she had always enjoyed doing.

“The tragedy that occurred in January was because at that time Sue had become severely depressed; it would have been unthinkable in any other circumstances.

“Although Sue recognises that the tragedy was beyond her control, she is consumed by remorse and guilt.

“Her mother was central to everything she did and the manner of her passing fills her with regret and sadness. It is the continuing generous support of friends and family which is helping us come to terms with these tragic events and we extend our thanks to them all.

“We are grateful that the justice system has recognised, that, but for her mental state, this tragedy would not have occurred, and that Sue will continue to receive treatment in hospital.

“The hope for all of us, including Gladys’ friends and neighbours, is that with expert care, Sue will recover and eventually return to her family.”

Emergency services were called to an address in Sheffield, at around 9am on Wednesday 22 January, where the body of Mrs Allen was discovered.

A post mortem examination proved inconclusive and further tests were undertaken to determine the cause of death. Mrs Allen had a range of injuries, including evidence of head wounds and broken ribs, Sheffield Crown Court was told.

Lead officer Detective Inspector Ian Fidler said: “This has been a difficult investigation of the most sensitive nature, because of the familial relationship between the victim and the defendant and a highly emotive case for all involved.

“Mrs Allen’s death was tragic and unfortunate, and we extend our deepest condolences to her family, who have shown tremendous strength throughout our investigation.”