William Budge, 62, was sentenced to seven years and four months in prison for attempting to murder his estranged wife by driving over her twice in Edinburgh in April 2024. Budge attacked Sandra Budge, 63, after she left him, citing “embarrassment” as his motive. The court heard that he had a history of abusive behaviour toward her, including prior assaults and controlling behaviour. Despite suffering severe injuries, including fractures and internal damage, Ms. Budge survived the attack. 

Sentencing Budge, Lord Lake condemned his actions as “callous and cruel,” noting the shocking nature of the incident captured on video. Although Budge pleaded guilty and expressed remorse, Ms. Budge criticised the sentence, saying it undermined confidence in the justice system and sent a discouraging message to victims of domestic abuse. A 15-year non-harassment order was imposed, prohibiting Budge from contacting his wife.