For ten years, Frances Garfinkle was confined to her bed by partial blindness, hearing loss and incontinence. Her husband Harry, 78, a retired Philadelphia wallpaper hanger, endured her constant nagging. But in January, when Frances complained about a meal Harry had prepared, the strain became too much: Garfinkle strangled her with a necktie.

He pleaded guilty to voluntary manslaughter. Last week common pleas court judge Lisa Richette declined to send Garfinkle to prison, sentencing him to ten years' probation. "You took care of a very sick woman. It's important that you not torture yourself. Try to go along enjoying your life," admonished Richette. Replied Garfinkle: "Thanks a million, Your Honor."