Kiena Dawes' abuser, his new girlfriend and mother arrested
During Wellings' trial, it was revealed that police were investigating if his mother and Ms Croft allegedly "coached" him on how to give evidence during his six-week trial at Preston Crown Court.While he was entitled to speak to family and friends, he was not legally allowed to discuss his case with them.
Police confirmed the two women were arrested on 26 February and have since been "released under investigation while enquiries continue".Wellings was arrested on 10 April.During the trial, lead prosecutor Paul Greaney KC said there had been reports of Wellings talking about the case with both women while he was on remand at HMP Preston.
'Monster'
The trial heard Wellings - who was found not guilty of manslaughter - had "swept Miss Dawes off her feet" when they met in 2020.But he was frequently violent, punching, strangling and dragging her to the floor.The assault charge referred to when, two weeks before Ms Dawes' death, Wellings slammed a door into her head at their flat in Fleetwood, knocking her unconscious and leaving her covered in blood.The attack happened in the presence of their screaming baby daughter.Miss Dawes left a note on her mobile phone detailing more abusive incidents during their relationship, describing Wellings as a "bully".Her brother told the trial: "The world now knows what a monster he is."
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