The inquest revealed a complex picture surrounding the death of Kerri-Anne Donaldson, a dancer known for her performances with the group Kings and Queens on Britain’s Got Talent. While facing allegations of a serious nature, she outwardly presented as stable and capable of seeking help.
Detective Constable Benjamin Harris, who led the investigation into the accusations against Donaldson, testified that she explicitly stated she was not considering self-harm. She had previously engaged with counseling services and understood how to access support if needed, presenting as “fine” and “normal” during interactions with police.
The court heard that Donaldson allegedly confided in her accuser, expressing a fear of the consequences should the allegations become public. She reportedly stated she would take her own life if the claim was revealed, a statement the accuser initially perceived as a potential tactic for control.
Police conducted a risk assessment, acknowledging that individuals facing accusations of the type Donaldson faced statistically present a heightened risk of suicide. Despite this, the initial assessment graded her risk of self-harm as ‘standard’.
Detective Constable Harris admitted, with the benefit of hindsight, he should have directly questioned Donaldson about her expressed fears during the risk assessment process. He emphasized the seriousness with which the police treat any mention of self-harm, and that he immediately reported the comments to senior officers.
Donaldson’s sister, Cara, offered a poignant tribute, describing her sister as possessing a “heart of gold” and bringing joy to everyone she knew. She spoke of Kerri-Anne’s deep devotion to her family and friends, and her unwavering passion for choreography and dance instruction.
The investigation revealed a delicate balance between assessing risk and understanding an individual’s outward presentation. Despite the concerning statement made to her accuser, Donaldson consistently conveyed a sense of stability and a knowledge of available support systems.
The inquest continues, seeking to understand the full circumstances surrounding this tragic loss and the factors that contributed to Donaldson’s death.
