Case Explained: Commissioner reinforces call for new laws after reports highlight hidden toll of abuse‑linked suicides – Legal Perspective

Lancashire has played a leading role in national discussions on this issue, hosting a major conference in 2025 which brought together policing, criminal justice, health, and academic partners to explore the legal and investigative challenges associated with domestic abuse‑related suicides.

The Commissioner is working closely with Lancashire Constabulary to ensure ongoing development of their expertise, including internal awareness‑raising campaigns highlighting the links between domestic abuse and suicide. He has also continued to engage with experts, campaigners, and Government to consider how legislation could be strengthened.

This work follows high‑profile cases such as the tragic death of 23‑year‑old Kiena Dawes, who died on a railway line in Lancashire on 22 July 2022. Her partner, Ryan Wellings, was acquitted of manslaughter but convicted of assault and coercive and controlling behaviour, reflecting the abuse Kiena endured.

The Commissioner said the latest reports underline the urgency of reform and demonstrate that the hidden toll of abuse‑linked suicides can no longer be overlooked. He confirmed that Lancashire will continue its work to strengthen local processes, improve evidence capture and ensure victims’ families are listened to, while also pushing nationally for change, and follows meetings with Government Ministers to discuss the issue this year.

The Commissioner said:

“Recent national reporting has reinforced the devastating extent of suicides linked to domestic abuse, and it confirms what families, practitioners and specialists have been telling us for far too long. The law as it stands does not provide the clarity, consistency or tools needed to respond effectively, or reflect the seriousness of offending that leads up to these tragedies.

“In recent months I have taken these concerns directly to Government, making the case for reclassifying coercive and controlling behaviour under the dangerous offender category, enabling extended determinate sentencing  and arguing for a new stand alone offence for domestic abuse related suicides to ensure that suspected abuse‑linked suicides and the coercive control that precedes them see perpetrators receive full accountability and a sentence that reflects their dangerous and abusive behaviour.

“This should be a turning point in recognising the true scale of this issue. Strengthening legislation, improving understanding of coercive control, and ensuring perpetrators are held fully accountable are all vital to preventing further loss of life

“Lancashire will continue to lead this conversation nationally. Our priority must always be safeguarding victims, supporting families and ensuring that those responsible for abuse are brought to justice.”