The jury is instructed to focus on evidence in the trial of Ryan Wellings, accused of causing Kiena Dawes’ tragic death
Lancashire: So, there’s this trial going on with Ryan Wellings, who’s accused of driving his partner, Kiena Dawes, to suicide. The jury’s been told to keep their emotions in check while they think about the case.
Wellings, who’s 30, is facing some serious charges, including coercive control and manslaughter. Kiena, just 23, tragically took her life on a railway line back in July 2022. Before she did, she left a note saying, “Ryan Wellings killed me.” That’s just heartbreaking.
The prosecution claims Kiena went through two years of abuse from Wellings. They say he hurt her during an argument at their home just days before her death. Wellings, a landscape gardener, admits he restrained her but insists she was the one being aggressive.
He mentioned he might have been a bit heavy-handed but never meant to hurt her. He even suggested that her injuries could have happened accidentally or that she might have hurt herself. After five weeks of evidence, the jury is set to deliberate soon.
In court, Judge Robert Altham reminded the jury how sad this case is. He said they need to focus on the facts and not let their feelings cloud their judgment. It’s a tough situation, and the trial is still ongoing.
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