A man from Scotland has received a prison sentence of over seven years after he was found guilty of attempting to murder his estranged wife by driving over her twice.
William Budge, aged 62, was sentenced to seven years and four months in prison on February 5, following his guilty plea to multiple charges, including attempted murder, at the High Court in Edinburgh.
According to footage released by the BBC, the incident took place on April 14, 2024, when Budge struck his 63-year-old estranged wife, Sandra Budge, with his vehicle. He then made a U-turn and drove over her again.
The attack occurred just three weeks after Sandra ended their 33-year marriage. Reports state that Budge felt “embarrassed” about the breakup.
The court learned that on the day of the incident, Budge had parked his car outside Sandra’s home and attempted to speak with her when she came back. He tried to force her into the car and take her phone, before a bystander intervened. In a recorded call, Sandra could be heard pleading for him to stop.
Budge then drove into her, lifting her onto the hood of his car before she fell onto the road and was run over. He ran over her a second time before driving away. His vehicle was later found in Dunfermline, Fife.
The following day, police were alerted to a man in the River Clyde, who was later identified as Budge. Sandra sustained serious injuries, described as “life-threatening.”
Budge has admitted to a history of domestic abuse, including charges of severe assault and the attempted murder of his estranged wife. As part of his sentencing, he has been given a non-harassment order for 15 years, preventing any contact with Sandra.
During sentencing, Judge Lord Lake highlighted the severity of Budge’s actions, stating that the video evidence was “horrifying” to witness. He emphasized the lasting impact on Sandra, both physically and mentally.
In a statement through her lawyers, Sandra expressed concern that the sentence might discourage other women from reporting domestic abuse.
Moira Orr from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service remarked on Budge’s reckless behavior, citing that it could have had devastating consequences. She extended her thoughts to Sandra as she continues to cope with the trauma caused by Budge’s actions.
