Abuser Cleared, Victim’s Family Outraged
Despite overwhelming evidence of abuse, including a suicide note stating “I was murdered,” Ryan Wellings was acquitted of manslaughter in the death of his ex-partner, Kiena Dawes. Wellings was convicted of assault and coercive control, but the family believes justice has not been served and Kiena’s voice has not been fully heard. The case highlights the rarity of manslaughter charges in suicide cases stemming from domestic abuse, despite the significant number of women who die by suicide after experiencing abuse. Kiena’s family and advocates continue to call for increased accountability for abusers in such situations.
John Q. Hosedrinker