Dorothea Waddingham

Dorothea Waddingham

Dorothea Waddingham was a British nurse and midwife who became infamous for her role in a notable case of poisoning in the 1930s. Her case is often cited in discussions of forensic science, criminal psychology, and the history of capital punishment in the United Kingdom.

Early Life

Little is known about Dorothea Waddingham's early life. She was born in the early 20th century and trained as a nurse and midwife. Waddingham operated a nursing home in Nottingham, where she provided care for patients and elderly individuals.

The Crimes

In 1935, Dorothea Waddingham was charged with the murders of Mrs. Baguley and her daughter, Ada Baguley, who were under her care. The prosecution alleged that Waddingham had administered lethal doses of morphine to the Baguleys in order to inherit their estate, as she had persuaded them to change their wills in her favor shortly before their deaths.

Trial and Execution

Waddingham's trial attracted significant public attention and highlighted the use of forensic evidence in criminal proceedings. The key piece of evidence was the detection of morphine in the bodies of the deceased, which was a relatively novel technique at the time. Despite her claims of innocence, Dorothea Waddingham was found guilty of murder and sentenced to death.

She was executed by hanging in 1936, becoming one of the last women to be executed in the United Kingdom. Her case contributed to the ongoing debates about the morality and effectiveness of the death penalty.

Legacy

The case of Dorothea Waddingham remains a significant moment in the history of British criminal justice. It is often referenced in discussions about the evolution of forensic science and its impact on legal proceedings. Additionally, her story is a grim reminder of the potential for abuse in caregiving professions.

Waddingham's case also played a role in the eventual abolition of capital punishment in the UK, as it highlighted the complexities and moral dilemmas associated with the death penalty.

See Also

• Forensic science
• Capital punishment in the United Kingdom
• History of nursing in the United Kingdom