The tragic case of Kiena Dawes highlights the devastating consequences of domestic abuse and coercive control. Ryan Wellings, a 30-year-old man, subjected his fiancée, Kiena, to a relentless campaign of physical and psychological abuse over a two-year period. This abuse ultimately culminated in Kiena’s suicide at the age of 23, leaving behind her nine-month-old baby. While Wellings was acquitted of manslaughter, he was found guilty of assault and controlling and coercive behavior, painting a disturbing picture of the torment Kiena endured.
Wellings’ abuse took various forms, ranging from physical violence to chilling threats. He repeatedly beat Kiena, even during her pregnancy, and threatened to drown her in a bath. He also made horrifying threats to disfigure her with acid, mimicking the attack on Katie Piper, and even encouraged Kiena to end her own life. On one occasion, he held her head underwater in the bath, uttering the chilling words, “Say goodbye to your baby.” This sustained pattern of abuse created an environment of fear and despair for Kiena, ultimately eroding her will to live.
The trial revealed the extent of Kiena’s suffering and the insidious nature of coercive control. The prosecution argued that Wellings’ abuse “set the scene” for Kiena’s death, highlighting the profound psychological impact of his actions. Kiena experienced significant emotional distress and psychological harm, which ultimately led her to believe that suicide was her only escape. Despite repeatedly reporting the abuse to the police, Kiena often downplayed the severity of the situation due to Wellings’ threats, demonstrating the manipulative tactics employed by abusers to silence their victims.
Kiena’s suicide note, typed on her phone shortly before her death, served as a chilling indictment of Wellings’ abuse. She wrote, “I was murdered. Ryan Wellings killed me. He ruined every bit of strength I had left. I didn’t deserve it.” This powerful message underscored the devastating impact of domestic violence and the sense of hopelessness that can drive victims to take their own lives. The note also called for swifter action from the police in cases of domestic abuse, highlighting the systemic failures that can contribute to such tragedies. Three police officers now face disciplinary proceedings in connection with Kiena’s case.
Adding to the complexity and controversy surrounding this case is the revelation that Wellings has become engaged while incarcerated. Emma Croft, 28, has reportedly accepted Wellings’ proposal, conveyed through a letter left with his mother before his conviction. Friends of Ms. Croft have expressed concern, suggesting that she is “in complete denial” and “completely in thrall” to Wellings, failing to recognize the true extent of his abusive behavior. This development raises questions about the psychology of relationships with perpetrators of domestic violence and the challenges faced by those who support them.
Kiena Dawes’s story serves as a stark reminder of the devastating impact of domestic abuse and the importance of recognizing the signs of coercive control. This case highlights the need for greater awareness and understanding of the complex dynamics of abusive relationships, as well as the importance
