Richard Cole was an LDS church member in Santa Rosa, California; accused of sexually and physically abusing his wife; in 1975 was murdered by his wife when she said needed the abuse to stop.

Richard Cole was a mormon in Santa Rosa, California.  Joan Cole, Richards wife, claimed that Richard Cole beat her several times a week and raped her.    His victim grew tired of his abuse and threats against taking her children and never allowing her to see them again and she shot and killed Richard.  The judge called Richard’s behavior “bizarre”.  Joan was sentenced to 1 year prison and 5 years probation.

 

Do you know them? Add info or contact us

FLOODLIT.org reports on sexual abuse in the LDS church in order to raise public awareness and help survivors heal. Learn more »

Sources

  1. Joan Cole Draws Prison Sentence, Petaluma Argus-Courier, June 8, 1976.
  2. Joan Cole is Sentenced to Term in State Prison, Petaluma Argus-Courier, June 8, 1976.

Documents

Have docs or info? Add information

Criminal case documents

Floodlit does not have a copy of a related probable cause affidavit. Please check back soon or contact us to request that we look for one.

Civil case documents

Floodlit does not have a copy of a related civil complaint. Please check back soon or contact us to request that we look for one.

Other documents

Floodlit does not have a copy of any other related documents. Please check back soon or contact us to request that we look for some.

Images/photos

Add information

If someone you know was harmed by the person listed on this page, or if you would like us to add or correct any information, please fill out the form below. We will keep you anonymous. You can also contact us directly.