Domestic abuser has prison sentence increased after Crown appeal

A man who tried to murder his estranged wife by driving over her twice with his car has had his prison sentence increased following a successful Crown appeal.
William Budge was previously jailed for seven years and four months in February 2025 after earlier pleading guilty to three charges at the High Court in Edinburgh.
Budge attempted to murder the victim on 14 April 2024 outside her Edinburgh home, leaving her with life-threatening injuries.
This included a charge under section 1 of the Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 as well as assault to severe injury, permanent disfigurement, permanent impairment, danger of life and attempted murder.
The Crown Office asked the Appeal Court to consider imposing a more severe sentence. The original sentence has now been quashed after the appeal was upheld by a panel of three judges.
The 62-year-old has now been sentenced to 10 years and 10 months’ imprisonment.
Laura Buchan, deputy crown agent, said: “COPFS is committed to improving the criminal justice journey for victims. Prosecutors have a responsibility to consider appeals based upon undue leniency in sentencing. Such appeals are rare.
“The decision to increase William Budge’s sentence provides reassurance that the impact of domestic abuse on victims is recognised by those within the criminal justice system. No one should have to live in fear of a partner or former partner. I would urge anyone affected by this type of offending to report it and seek support.”