Are these two so different because of culture, race or something else?
Maritha Nelson, illegal immigrant in US from Mexico
Fox News reports Maritha Nelson’s $240 in food stamps has run out, leaving her $9 in cash and seven people to feed. The 50-year-old single mother, who entered the U.S. by swimming across the Rio Grande, has government funded housing, medication, and $700 a month in Social Security. She’s been on assistance for 20 years, and wants others to know that help is available.
Michael Cole, British citizen in UK
An unemployed man stabbed to death his wife of 32 years because he felt their life on benefits was meaningless and they had nothing to do other than watch television.
Michael Cole, 56, was overcome by “chronic feelings of hopelessness” and directed his anger towards Susan, 53, Exeter Crown Court heard.
The couple, who had no children, had both lost their jobs and and faced the prospect of having their home being repossessed when their savings ran out.
Cole had tried to convince his wife to make a suicide pact but she refused.
He killed her with a hammer and knife and remained with her body at their home in Torquay for two days before calling the police on March 13 to confess.
Cole then tried to take his own life but survived.