Britain's Got Talent Star's Tragic Death After Sexual Offence Arrest
An inquest has revealed that Britain's Got Talent star Kerri-Anne Donaldson had spoken of taking her own life before her tragic death. The 38-year-old dancer, who reached the semi-final of the ITV show in 2014 as part of the group Kings and Queens, was found dead at her home in Farnborough, Hampshire, on June 7, 2023.
Arrest and Allegations
The hearing in Winchester heard that Donaldson was arrested on June 4 and questioned at Basingstoke police station regarding a sexual offence, which she denied. The complainant informed police that Donaldson had stated she would take her own life if the allegation became public knowledge.
Detective Constable Benjamin Harris of Hampshire Constabulary, who led the investigation, testified that the complainant was interviewed on video about the accusation. When questioned by coroner Jason Pegg, Det Con Harris confirmed the complainant's account of Donaldson's suicidal remarks.
Police Risk Assessment
Det Con Harris discussed the possibility that Donaldson's comments could have been a "form of control" against the complainant, noting that in his experience, such threats are sometimes made without intent to carry them out. He emphasized that suggestions of self-harm are taken very seriously, reporting it to senior officers and advising colleagues prior to Donaldson's arrest.
After interviewing Donaldson, Det Con Harris graded her risk of self-harm as "standard," stating she appeared fine and gave no indication of suicidal intent. He mentioned she had previously seen a counsellor and knew how to seek help. However, he admitted with hindsight that he should have included the complainant's comments in the risk assessment.
Final Days and Cause of Death
The inquest heard that Donaldson went missing and was found at a hotel in Woking, Surrey, where she had taken an overdose and was taken to hospital. Following her discharge, she was tragically found hanged at her home the next day.
A post-mortem examination confirmed the cause of death as hanging, with non-fatal levels of medication in her blood consistent with an overdose. Det Con Harris noted that police lack powers to detain someone unless they present an "imminent" danger to themselves.
The hearing continues, highlighting the complex interplay between mental health, legal proceedings, and personal tragedy in this case.
