Woman jailed for eight years for killing her mother

A woman has admitted the manslaughter of her mother on Christmas Day – but has been found not guilty of her murder.

Following a seven-day trial by jury at Bristol Crown Court, Stefania Glowka, 64, of Keepers Road, Devizes, was today (09/06) acquitted of the murder of Tamara Glowka, 86, with whom she lived.

She previously pleaded guilty to her manslaughter by diminished responsibility, and was sentenced to eight years imprisonment, of which she must serve two-thirds.

The incident took place on Christmas morning. Shortly after 8.10am, we received a call from Stefania reporting that she had strangled her mother, and had made attempts to harm herself.

Officers made to the scene in Keepers Road, Devizes, where Tamara was sadly found deceased.

Stefania was arrested on suspicion of murder and was taken to hospital to be treated for her injuries, which were found not to be life-changing.

In her subsequent police interview, Stefania admitted to killing her mother, stating that she felt unable to continue looking after Tamara, who suffered from various physical and mental health-related issues, and that she “thought it would be nice to die on the same day”.

Stefania was subsequently charged and remanded into custody.

Following today’s verdict, investigating officer DS Chris Hughes from our Major Crime Investigation Team said: “This is an incredibly sad incident in which an elderly woman has lost her life on Christmas morning.

“I’d like to thank and pay tribute to all the officers who attended this incident, as well as the various staff from our partner agencies.

“It can’t have been easy on a day which revolves around family, but they dealt with this incident with the usual professionalism, care and diligence.”