Three people were sentenced at Preston Crown Court on 8 May 2026 for contempt of court after interfering with a trial related to the death of Fleetwood mother Kiena Dawes. Ryan Wellings received a seven-month prison sentence, while Emma Croft and Lisa Green received suspended sentences. The individuals were found to have breached a court order by discussing evidence during the trial, in which Wellings was ultimately acquitted of manslaughter but convicted of assault and coercive and controlling behaviour.
Between 17 December 2024 and 2 January 2025, Ryan Wellings participated in eight telephone calls from prison with his then-partner, Emma Croft, and his mother, Lisa Green. During these conversations, which occurred while Wellings was giving evidence in his trial, the group discussed case details that were subject to a strict court order.
Prosecuting counsel Adam Birkby detailed how Emma Croft engaged in witness coaching during these calls. She instructed Wellings on how to present his testimony, specifically advising him to express regret, show emotion, and mention self-defence to influence the proceedings.
Kiena Dawes, a 23-year-old hairdresser, died by suicide on a railway line on 22 July 2022. Judge Robert Altham, who presided over both the initial trial and these contempt proceedings, stated that the actions of the three individuals represented a serious interference with the fairness and integrity of the trial process. While the judge noted that the ultimate outcome of the trial could not be concluded to have been affected, he stressed the gravity of the conduct.
As a result of his contempt conviction, Ryan Wellings received an additional seven-month prison sentence. This time is to be served consecutively to his original sentence, meaning his earliest possible release date is now expected to be approximately March 2027. Emma Croft and Lisa Green received suspended sentences for their roles in the breach, according to Lancashire Constabulary.
About this article: This story was put together with the help of AI tools and checked by a real person on our team. We're a small crew trying to cover as much of the UK as we can on a limited budget. We're getting better every day - but we're not perfect yet. If something looks off, let us know. You're part of the process.
