Man jailed for manslaughter of his wife – Shipdham

Pictured: Rafal Winiarski

A man has been sentenced to 25 years for the manslaughter of his wife Malgorzata Lechanska after appearing at Norwich Crown Court today (28 May 2024).

Rafal Winiarski, 42, c/o HMP Norwich, has been sentenced to 21 years in prison, as well as four years on extended licence, for the manslaughter of his wife Malgorzata Lechanska, who was 37 at the time of her death.

Winiarski previously pleaded guilty to manslaughter.

Police arrested Winiarski after they were called to reports a neighbour heard a woman being attacked at a house in Lake Close, Shipdham on the afternoon of Sunday 1 August 2021.

The court heard how the neighbour reported a male shouting and a female screaming at the neighbouring property and described how a young girl was seen outside the address looking distressed.

At 1.30pm police arrived at the property and saw Malgorzata collapsed on the floor, in the kitchen, not breathing.

Police gained entry into the property via the rear kitchen door and found Winiarski sat on the sofa in the lounge staring at the TV, which was switched on. Outside the address with the neighbour was the young daughter of the victim and suspect, unharmed.

Malgorzata was declared dead at the scene by a paramedic and Winiarski was arrested at the scene and taken to Wymondham Police Investigation Centre for questioning.

Malgorzata suffered significant injures to her head and body, which police found were consistent with an attack by a bladed weapon.

Detective Inspector Alix Wright, who led the investigation, said: “This was a horrific attack by Rafal Winiarski against his wife. Malgorzata’s family have shown tremendous bravery throughout the investigation.

“We are committed to targeting domestic abuse as a priority and will continue to work with partner agencies to help victims.

“We would encourage anyone who has been a victim of domestic abuse or coercive and controlling behaviour to report this to police or seek professional support.”

If you are a victim of domestic abuse or witness abuse, there are a number of organisations that can help you. In an emergency contact the police on 999. In a non-emergency the police can be contacted on 101 or see a list of support services >> here