AN army sergeant who tried to kill his wife by tampering with her parachute has been jailed for life.

Emile Cilliers, aged 38, was sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum of 18years in prison at Winchester Crown Court today, after being found guilty of attempting to murder his wife Victoria.

Det Insp Paul Franklin said: "We welcome today's sentencing, which brings to an end of a very long and detailed investigation.

"From the outset, Emile Cilliers showed no remorse for what he had done; he lied all the way through two trials but in the end justice won out with the guilty verdicts and now a long prison sentence.

"Emile Cilliers is dangerous; he's a cold, callous, selfish man who cares only about money and his sexual conquests. Today's sentencing means that society is a little safer with him locked away.

"I also hope this result means that there can now be some closure for his wife Victoria and her family, who were victims in this.

"Wiltshire Police is dedicated in bringing offenders like Cilliers to justice as well as giving help to those who find themselves in subtle abusive and coercive relationships - like the one highlighted here.

"Often, the abuse is not obvious because there may be no physical tell tale signs or injuries. "However, a victim suffering emotional and financial abuse, as in this case, can be just as deeply traumatised.

"If you find yourself in that situation please seek help - there are many people who are there for you."