Ms Dawes’ testimony from “beyond the grave”, as described by lead prosecutor Paul Greaney KC in court, served as the initial basis for the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) to assess charging Wellings with manslaughter. Detailed notes found on Ms Dawes’ phone chronicled two and a half years of physical and emotional abuse inflicted by Wellings. One account described how he destroyed a small shrine dedicated to her late father, while another depicted a harrowing incident where he threatened to disfigure her face with acid. During the trial, it was revealed that Wellings had menacingly wielded a drill and threatened to harm her if she tried to end their relationship.
Wellings’ trial also brought to light multiple instances where the police were called to the couple’s shared flat in Fleetwood due to domestic disturbances. Ms Dawes had reported being assaulted, strangled, given a black eye, and even almost drowned in the bath by Wellings. Her interactions with a domestic abuse support charity, Refuge, showed a pattern of abuse that included physical violence and intimidation.
Despite being arrested in July 2022, Wellings denied intentionally harming Ms Dawes and was granted bail. Tragically, mere weeks later, Ms Dawes took her own life after leaving her infant daughter with a friend and driving away. The jury’s verdict acknowledged that Wellings had both physically and psychologically abused Ms Dawes, but they did not find him criminally liable for her death.
After Wellings’ conviction, Angela Dawes expressed her hope that no one else would have to endure what her daughter went through. She stressed the importance of holding perpetrators of domestic abuse accountable. The CPS reiterated its commitment to pursuing similar cases in the future despite the outcome of this trial.
“Nicholas Allen is the only individual who has faced imprisonment for manslaughter in connection with the suicide of a partner following prolonged domestic abuse. In 2017, Allen confessed to killing Justene Reece and received a 10-year prison sentence. During sentencing, Judge Michael Chambers KC highlighted that Allen had subjected Ms. Reece to a harrowing existence, ultimately leading her to take her own life. Kiena Dawes expressed a desire to remain alive for her daughter but tragically succumbed to the abuse inflicted upon her by her boyfriend [Lancashire Police].
Organizations providing assistance to victims of domestic violence reiterated their perspective on the correlation between abuse and suicide in light of this case. Julia Dwyer, head of services at Refuge, emphasized the undeniable connection between domestic abuse and suicide, with an estimated three women enduring domestic violence taking their own lives weekly. She further revealed that 24% of service users had contemplated suicide at least once.
Harriet Wistrich, director of the Centre for Women’s Justice, disclosed that several similar cases are currently being reviewed by the CPS. Wistrich noted the jury’s likely challenge in determining the influence of pre-existing vulnerabilities on the victim’s actions, suggesting that the perpetrator may bear greater responsibility for exacerbating the situation. She advocated for the incorporation of expert testimony elucidating the dynamics of coercive control within criminal court proceedings, aiming to illuminate the intricate mechanisms that entrap individuals in abusive relationships.
The plea for comprehensive understanding and acknowledgment of the complexities surrounding domestic abuse-induced suicides resonates as a call for systemic change within the legal framework. Acknowledging the intricate interplay of psychological factors and manipulative tactics employed by abusers is crucial in fostering a more nuanced approach to adjudicating such cases.
For those grappling with despair or emotional distress, resources are available through BBC Action Line to provide guidance and support. Stay informed by tuning in to BBC Radio Lancashire on Sounds and engaging with BBC Lancashire on social media platforms. Share your insights and stories with us via email at northwest.newsonline@bbc.co.uk or through Whatsapp at 0808 100 2230.
In a somber reflection on the tragic consequences of domestic abuse, the case highlights the pressing need for a holistic response encompassing legal, social, and psychological dimensions to prevent further loss of life due to such insidious forms of violence.”
