Two Officers Face Investigation Following Acquittal in Manslaughter Trial
Two police officers now face a formal investigation for potential gross misconduct linked to the tragic death of Tarryn Baird, a 34-year-old woman who died by suicide in Swindon, Wiltshire, in November 2017. Her husband, Christopher Trybus, 44, was recently acquitted by a jury of all charges, including manslaughter, two counts of rape, and controlling and coercive behaviour.
Background: The Case Against Christopher Trybus
The prosecution accused Mr. Trybus of perpetrating a relentless “tsunami” of violent and controlling domestic abuse against Ms. Baird, claims he consistently denied. Despite the serious allegations, the jury found insufficient evidence to convict him, delivering a not guilty verdict on all counts. Mr. Trybus expressed relief following the verdict, stating, “After three police investigations over the course of 10 years, I’m relieved that the jury has carefully considered the evidence and reached the correct verdict.”
Independent Office for Police Conduct Launches Investigation
The Independent Office for Police Conduct (IOPC) confirmed it is probing the conduct of two officers: one who attended the scene of Ms. Baird’s death and another involved in the subsequent investigation who has since retired. This inquiry focuses on Wiltshire Police’s handling of the initial investigation and whether critical opportunities to investigate effectively were missed.
An IOPC spokesperson said, “We received a voluntary conduct referral from Wiltshire Police on 25 June 2025 related to the investigation into Tarryn Baird’s death on 28 November 2017. While the original police inquiry found insufficient evidence to charge anyone and closed the case, a later review by Dorset Police led to charges being filed.”
Renewed Investigation Sparked by New Evidence
The case took a crucial turn when Ms. Baird’s mother, Michelle Baird, uncovered photos of injuries her daughter had stored on her phone. This discovery prompted a second police investigation launched in October 2020. Evidence presented at trial revealed Ms. Baird was likely suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and was actively seeking treatment for anxiety and depression.
Wiltshire Police Respond to Ongoing Scrutiny
Assistant Chief Constable Liz Coles of Wiltshire Police outlined the force’s actions, stating that in 2017 they made a mandatory referral to the IOPC due to prior contact with Ms. Baird. The IOPC’s independent investigation, completed in 2019, concluded Wiltshire Police had no case to answer at that time. The criminal investigation by the Major Crime Investigation Team also recommended no further action against Mr. Trybus in 2019.
However, new evidence identified in 2020 led to reopening the criminal case. Wiltshire Police then requested another force to oversee the investigation, resulting in charges against Mr. Trybus. The force made a second referral to the IOPC, which remains under independent review. “As the IOPC investigation is ongoing, it would not be appropriate for us to comment further,” the statement concluded.
Support Resources for Those in Crisis
If you or someone you know is struggling with emotional distress or suicidal thoughts, help is available. In the UK, contact Samaritans at 116 123 or visit samaritans.org. In the US, call the local Samaritans branch or the national hotline at 1 (800) 273-TALK.
