From an inquest soon to be online

An inquisition taken this 21st day of January 1876 at the China Court Inn, East Dean from thence by adjournment to the 24th January at the Bell Inn, Ruardean on view of the body of Elijah Read aged 21 years, Collier

VERDICT

“Perforation of the intestines by a knife or some sharp instrument, Wilful murder against Joseph Bedmead[?] “

The following is from the Gloucester Gaol Records

Joseph BIDMEAD

Date of Admission- 1/2/1876

Last Residence & Trade - East Dean, Collier

Age -27

Height 5ft 4ins

Hair- Dark Bro[wn]

Eyes- Bro[wn]

Visage- Long, Oval

Complexion - Fair

Distinguishing Marks- Blue scar on bridge of nose, 2 moles on back of neck, scar inside left leg.

Charged upon the Coroners Inquisition with the wilful murder of Elijah Read. Wilfully and of his malice aforthought did kill & murder Elijah Read at Ruardean on the 19th January 1876

When Tried - Spring Assizes 6/4/1876

Verdict - Guilty of manslaughter, TWENTY years Penal Servitude

Removed- 5/5/1976 by Secretary of States warrant to Pentonville

Church, single, [???] Newland, Known to Mr Cliff[Chuff?] 4 years, has been in Hereford Gaol 4 times for assault. Mother Mary BIDMEAD, Ruardean Hill, nr Coleford, Gloucestershire

So, did Joseph "do his time?"

David D