A Colne man has admitted poisoning of his ex-wife by lacing her tea with mercury compound over an period of time.
Grandfather William Dowling, 69, was told by a judge at Preston Crown Court that he could face a prison sentence.
Dowling of Linden Road, Colne, admitted administering poison or noxious substance with intent to injure, aggrieve or annoy his wife of more than 30 years after they had split up.
Retired electrician Dowling denied the more serious allegation of administering the poison with intent to endanger life, and that pleas was accepted by the Crown Prosectution Service
Det Insp Dave Groombridge said: “Any offence designed or intended to injure people is a priority for the police but where that offence is pre-meditated, planned and executed with malice a firm police response will always follow.
“Mr Dowling chose to poison his ex-wife for reasons best known to himself using a mercury compound, the origins of which he refused to divulge. The effects its ingestion are still being felt by the victim.
“Thankfully, owing to the advances in medical and forensic science poisoning in its many guises is rare but, as this case illustrates, not beyond the scope of a determined mind.”
Judge Stuart Baker will sentence Dowling on 7th August 2009
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