Christopher Trybus, a 44-year-old IT firm boss from Swindon, Wiltshire, has spoken publicly for the first time after being cleared of all charges related to the death of his wife, Tarryn Baird. The trial at Winchester Crown Court lasted eight weeks, during which Trybus was acquitted of manslaughter, two counts of rape, and controlling and coercive behaviour. Baird, 34, died by suicide in 2017, leaving a note alleging abuse.
Trybus denies abuse, insists he loved his wife
In an interview with the Daily Mail, Trybus stated: "I absolutely never hurt her, and I never would have. I loved her, and the idea that I would deliberately harm her is very upsetting to me and completely contrary to who I am and to the relationship I knew." He expressed concern that the "stain on my name will follow me forever" despite his acquittal.
Prosecution case and evidence
Prosecutors alleged that Trybus subjected Baird to a "tsunami of abuse," including monitoring her whereabouts, limiting her access to finance, and isolating her from family. The court heard evidence of bruises and wounds on Baird's body from selfies taken after her death, and a "rape tape" audio recording of a sexual encounter was played to the jury. Trybus admitted to using a "fluffy collar" during sex but denied causing injury. The defence highlighted that Baird had also purchased sex toys and joked about "rough sex" with friends, referencing the popularity of the Fifty Shades of Grey series.
Mental health and allegations
The trial heard that Baird, originally from South Africa, was diagnosed with probable PTSD after witnessing a violent car-jacking. She made over 30 reports of domestic abuse to professionals in the two years before her death, claiming Trybus had hit her with a metal pole, wrapped a rope around her neck, and kicked and punched her. A psychiatric nurse testified that Baird saw only "two choices of a way out: either to leave her husband or die." Trybus said this was "deeply painful to hear" and maintained he was unaware of the allegations until after her death.
Alibi and acquittal
Trybus provided evidence that he was abroad in Sweden during several alleged incidents, including one where Baird claimed he beat her on November 13, 2016. He was in Sweden from November 8 to November 23. The jury deliberated for 40 hours before clearing him of all charges. Trybus broke down in tears, with some jurors smiling at him.
Impact on Trybus and his current wife
Trybus has since remarried Bea, 39, who has two children from a previous marriage. She described him as "the opposite of coercive and controlling" and said the trial was terrifying, with discussions about the possibility of him going to prison. Trybus now faces a £250,000 legal bill and fears losing his home, but says: "My freedom is the most important thing, and if we have to sell the house so be it." He added: "The grief at her death stays. It's always there. It's like a big black hole, but life grows around it."
