Arabic version: رجل يُحكم عليه بالسجن لقتل زوجته بعد اعتداءات منزلية
A man has been sentenced to eight years in prison for the culpable homicide of his wife, Kimberly Milne, who died after jumping from a motorway bridge. The incident occurred in July 2023 when the 28-year-old was struck by multiple vehicles on the A90 in Dundee. Lee Milne, aged 40, was found guilty by a jury of culpable homicide and a separate charge of domestic abuse. According to BBC News, this case marks the first prosecution of its kind in Scotland, holding Milne responsible for his wife’s death despite her decision to jump.
During the trial, it was revealed that Kimberly had endured significant violence at the hands of Milne throughout their relationship, which began in late 2021 and culminated in their marriage in September 2022. Prosecutors detailed numerous incidents of abuse, including choking, grabbing her by the hair, striking her, shouting and swearing, which left Kimberly in a state of fear and despair. Judge Lady Drummond noted the profound impact of Milne’s actions on Kimberly, stating that she reached a point of despair that led to her tragic decision.
Witnesses described the couple’s interactions on the night of Kimberly’s death, highlighting Milne’s aggressive behavior and Kimberly’s visible fear. CCTV footage showed Kimberly cowering from Milne as he shouted at her, reinforcing the narrative of emotional and physical abuse that characterized their relationship. Following the verdict, Detective Chief Inspector Craig Kelly labeled Milne a “violent bully” and expressed satisfaction that he would serve time for his actions.
The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) described the case as a landmark prosecution, raising important questions about accountability in domestic abuse situations. Legal director Laura Buchan emphasized that the evidence presented during the trial demonstrated how Milne’s abuse significantly contributed to Kimberly’s tragic decision to end her life. Following his prison term, Milne will be supervised in the community for three years.
