Every now and then something happens that makes you recall something that happened to you. Some recent but some weeks, months or even years ago. Sometimes it-is something very funny, sometimes it-is something that affects the way you perceive the world and its inhabitants, sometimes it makes you question your sense of value or social conscience. Sometimes the affect is deep, emotional and everlasting. These things you simply do not forget.
I was called to what was reported as a burglary in progress at a house occupied by an elderly couple in their 70’s. They had never been any trouble to anyone, never fought or fell out. She was a sweet old girl and he was the perfect gentlemen. These were descriptions from their close neighbours. They seemed to be the perfect couple.
The callers, yes there were callers, mentioned crashing, banging and loud screaming coming from the normally quiet household and several units responded.
Upon my arrival I could hear loud and distressed screaming and found the front door shut. I went to the back and found the back door closed but unlocked. I quickly entered and made my way to the location of the noise. This was in the dining room.
Upon my entry I could see the wife, the elderly lady, very distressed, very angry, very just about everything. She was directing her fury, her anguish and obvious anger towards the husband, the small, insignificant and forlorn figure sat, like a statue on a chair at the table. He was unmoved, or perhaps he was unable to move. At that moment I was unable to tell. There was something else.
He had the contents of his dinner plate, the roast dinner, over his head, over his shoulders and draped across his face, down his front and in his lap.
This was a far more serious crime than a dwelling burglary.
What was his crime ?
It appeared that after 50 odd years of marriage, he had made the mistake, for some completely unknown reason, of telling his wife that he did not like her gravy.
I cancelled all the other units.
But being the Police, some just had to come and see for themselves.
What is it they say ? For better or for worse ?
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