The family of Kiena Dawes is bracing for a new battle following the sentencing of her abusive boyfriend, Ryan Wellings. Wellings, who was convicted of assault and controlling behavior but acquitted of manslaughter in connection with Dawes’ suicide, received a six-and-a-half-year prison sentence. While this brings a measure of closure for some of the charges, it also opens a new chapter of anguish for Kiena’s family, as Wellings has expressed his intention to seek custody of their three-year-old daughter, Marnie Blu, upon his release. This declaration has ignited outrage and fear amongst Dawes’ loved ones, who are now tasked with protecting the young child from the man they believe contributed to her mother’s death.
Kiena Dawes’ suicide note, in which she called Wellings her “killer,” played a central role in the trial, but ultimately did not result in a manslaughter conviction. This fact underscores the complexity of linking abusive behavior to suicide in a legal context, and leaves Kiena’s family feeling that justice has not been fully served. While the court acknowledged Wellings’ abusive actions, the burden of proof for manslaughter related to suicide proved insurmountable. This legal outcome has left a lingering sense of injustice for Dawes’ family, who firmly believe that Wellings’ sustained abuse drove Kiena to take her own life.
The prospect of Wellings gaining custody of Marnie Blu is a terrifying prospect for Kiena’s mother, Angela, who currently cares for the young girl. Angela is left to grapple with not only the grief of losing her daughter but also the constant fear that her granddaughter might be placed in the care of the man she holds responsible for Kiena’s death. The three-year-old, still grappling with the absence of her mother, frequently asks about her whereabouts, a poignant reminder of the profound loss caused by Wellings’ actions. This constant questioning adds another layer of emotional burden to Angela and Kiena’s loved ones, constantly forcing them to confront the tragic reality of the situation.
Adding to the family’s distress is Wellings’ public declaration on social media expressing his intent to pursue custody. He posted a message indicating his love for his three daughters, including Marnie Blu, and vowed to gain custody after his release. This brazen announcement has further inflamed tensions and solidified the family’s resolve to prevent him from having any contact with the child. The public nature of his declaration adds insult to injury, forcing Kiena’s family to confront his intentions in a very public and painful way.
The online response to Wellings’ post has been swift and condemning. Friends of Kiena have taken to social media, flooding his accounts with messages expressing their outrage and disgust at his actions and intentions. These posts highlight the community’s shared grief and anger over Kiena’s death and their unwavering support for her family. They also serve as a stark reminder of the public’s awareness of Wellings’ abusive behavior and their determination to hold him accountable, even within the limitations of the legal system.
The case of Kiena Dawes tragically illustrates the devastating consequences of domestic abuse and the complex challenges faced by families left in its wake. The fight over Marnie Blu’s custody represents an ongoing battle for justice and the child’s well-being. This fight highlights the critical need for greater awareness and prevention of domestic violence and strengthened legal protections for victims and their families. Kiena’s family, and indeed the wider community, are determined to ensure that Marnie Blu is safeguarded from the man they believe robbed her of her mother. Their fight is a testament to their love for Kiena and their unwavering commitment to protecting her legacy by ensuring her daughter’s safety and well-being.
