Kiena Dawes Trial: A Landmark Case That Ended in Jury Disagreement
The Kiena Dawes trial raised questions about domestic abuse and justice, but the jury’s decision left many disappointed and seeking change.
Kiena Dawes, Ryan Wellings, Domestic Abuse, Lancashire, UK
Fleetwood: This case had the potential to change things. Ryan Wellings was the first to face a jury for manslaughter after abusing Kiena Dawes. Sadly, the jury didn’t see it that way.
Only one person has been convicted of manslaughter in a similar situation before, and that was a guilty plea. Nicholas Allen was sentenced to 10 years after his partner, Justene Reece, took her own life due to his abuse.
In 2017, Allen’s case highlighted the tragic consequences of domestic violence. Justene left a note saying she had “run out of fight” after years of torment. It’s heartbreaking.
Fast forward to Kiena’s story. On July 22, 2022, she dropped her baby off and then took her own life, leaving a chilling message: “Ryan Wellings killed me.” But the jury didn’t agree.
Kiena, just 23, had a history of mental health struggles, which Wellings was aware of. She had been diagnosed with emotionally unstable personality disorder and had been in and out of mental health services since she was 14.
Despite her openness about her issues, Wellings mocked her, calling her names and belittling her. Just weeks before her death, she was so overwhelmed by suicidal thoughts that she crashed her car.
In court, Wellings claimed their relationship was great and that Kiena was exaggerating her claims of abuse. But the jury saw through his lies. They heard how he assaulted her over the years, including a brutal incident on July 11, 2022, that left her needing hospital treatment.
After that assault, Kiena was in a bad way, and just 11 days later, she was gone. The jury had to decide if Wellings’ abuse led to her death, but they couldn’t find him guilty of manslaughter.
DCI Andy Fallows from Lancashire Police expressed disappointment over the verdict but praised the jury for recognizing Wellings’ wrongdoing. He emphasized the importance of seeking help for anyone in an abusive relationship.
It’s a tragic reminder of the impact of domestic abuse and the need for change. Kiena was more than just a victim; she was a loving mother and a vibrant young woman whose life was cut short.