WEYMOUTH MAN KILLS EX-PARTNER AFTER HARASSMENT COMPLAINTS
Deceased Steven Doughty murdered his former partner, Sherrie Teresa Milnes, after bombarding her with unwanted texts, calls, flowers, and gifts in the days leading up to her death.Despite her having reported him for harassment to Dorset Police on March 31, 2021, and being assigned a medium risk rating, police were unable to visit her within the expected 24 hours due to high demand and operational strains.
The day after her complaint, Steven entered her flat and strangled her on her sofa before stabbing her multiple times in the neck and chest.
He then disposed of the murder weapon and her mobile phone in a bin, which were never recovered despite extensive searches.
Steven left her flat, took an overdose at his home in Portland, and was found dead by police at his residence later that evening, having committed suicide.
The coroner's inquest concluded that Steven's actions were premeditated, with evidence suggesting planning and intent to kill, motivated by their breakup and his inability to accept her moving on with her life.
His death was confirmed as suicide based on an email, and the forensic pathologist confirmed that Sherrie died from neck compression and multiple stab wounds.
The court acknowledged the tragic failure of the police response given the risk assessment and existing mental health and demand pressures, with recommendations for improved risk assessment procedures and police training.
