Nelson Man Sentenced for Lacing Ex-Partner’s Shampoo with Hair-Removal Cream

In June 2024, Stacey Waddel, a resident of Nelson, New Zealand, entered the home of his former partner while she was away and replaced the contents of her shampoo bottle with Veet hair-removal cream. The woman continued to use the product, noting an unusual texture, reduced lather, a distinct smell, and scalp tenderness. After comparing the altered bottle with an identical unopened one, she discovered the discrepancy and found a discarded Veet receipt near a rubbish bin. She reported the incident to police, who confirmed that Waddel had purchased the cream earlier that month, claiming it was “for his wife who had sensitive skin.” The woman later reported hair loss and a receding hairline that began in April, suggesting the tampering may have occurred more than once.

The New Zealand Herald

Police charged Waddel with a criminal offence carrying a maximum penalty of three years’ imprisonment. He pleaded guilty to buying the cream and adding it to the shampoo bottle in retaliation for perceived mistreatment. The court convicted him of the charge and ordered that he appear for sentencing if called upon within the next nine months. The sentencing decision reflects the seriousness of deliberately contaminating a personal care product and the resulting physical harm.

The New Zealand Herald

The case highlights the legal system’s response to domestic-related sabotage involving everyday consumer items. It underscores the potential for seemingly innocuous products to be weaponised in personal disputes, prompting law-enforcement agencies to treat such tampering as a distinct criminal act. The incident also raises awareness for consumers to verify the integrity of personal-care products, especially when sharing living spaces after a relationship ends.

The New Zealand Herald

• “for his wife who had sensitive skin.” — Stacey Waddel, defendant (statement to pharmacy assistant)

The New Zealand Herald