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.

 

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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.

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