A DEADLY combination of obsessive jealousy, infidelity and impending financial ruin pushed Randle Williams into murdering his wife and dumping her body in a river near their home, a court heard.
The 43-year-old Bradford on Avon computer boss is accused of trying to cash in on more than £700,000 of life insurance policies by murdering his 33-year-old wife Natalie, in a bid to escape a 'financial black hole' created by his lies and deception. He denies murder.
Jurors heard how cosmetics buyer Mrs Williams' flirtatious behaviour and sexual affairs sparked violent rages in her husband, who assaulted neighbours on two occasions.
Mark Evans QC, prosecuting at Bristol Crown Court, said jealousy coupled with the financial motive created a recipe for murder.
Police divers found Mrs Williams' body on April 22 - face down and submerged in the River Avon near their £350,000 Greenland Mills home. A murder inquiry was launched when a post-mortem revealed she died from drowning and strangulation.
The case continues.
For a special report on the trial, click here.
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