Suicide 'advice' judge slammed

A Judge who told a man with a history of mental health problems: “The next time you want to commit suicide, find somewhere quiet to do it” has been slammed by charity workers.

Emotional support charity The Samaritans has lambasted Judge Peter Bowers after he gave advice to dad-of-three Stephen Arnold on how he should kill himself if he ever wanted to take his life again.



Arnold, who appeared in court last week, had downed 150 paracetamol tablets and been involved in a car chase with police at speeds of up to 130mph in June this year.

Samaritan worker Mike Cobb said: “It is hard to believe that a man in such a high position can come out with such a flippant remark.

“People who have emotional or mental health problems need support and help. They don’t need advice on how to kill themselves. I don’t know what this judge was thinking saying something like that. He is in a position of authority and should know better.”