Man given hospital order for manslaughter following the death of a patient at Parklands Hospital

A former patient at Parklands Hospital in Basingstoke has been given a hospital order under section 37 of the Mental Health Act after admitting to the manslaughter of another patient in November 2021.

Owen Herbert, 19, pleaded guilty to manslaughter, ABH and assaulting an emergency worker on the grounds of diminished responsibility at Birmingham Crown Court earlier this year.

The court heard that police were called at 4.07am on Saturday, 27 November to a report of a serious assault at the hospital.

It was reported that a patient had been seriously assaulted another patient whilst he was asleep in bed.

Officers attended along with paramedics who pronounced Richard Laversuch, 63, from Andover dead at the scene.

A post-mortem examination was subsequently carried out, confirming Richard died as a result of strangulation.

The court also heard that a short time before this incident, at around 3.41am, a second patient had been woken by a man, now known to be Herbert, trying to strangle him.

The victim, a man in his 60’s, managed to fight him off and run out of his room to notify staff.

Appearing at Winchester Crown Court today, Friday, 10 February, Herbert was given a hospital order under section 37 of the Mental Health Act with a restriction order under section 41 of the same Act for manslaughter, ABH and assaulting an emergency worker.

Detective Chief Inspector Abbie Leeson from Hampshire Constabulary said “This is an extremely sad and tragic case that has left two families heartbroken.

“My sincere condolences go out to Richard’s family and friends as they continue to come to terms with their loss.”