Man Faces Manslaughter Charges Over Woman's Suicide Following Alleged Domestic Abuse
A man has been formally charged with manslaughter in connection with the death of a woman who took her own life after reportedly enduring a prolonged campaign of domestic abuse. Gillian Morand, aged 36, died by suicide in March 2020, with a subsequent inquest confirming the cause of death.
Charges and Allegations
Seyhan Assaf, 45, from Sidcup in southeast London, has been charged with both manslaughter and coercive or controlling behaviour. The Metropolitan Police stated that the decision to press charges came after new information emerged regarding allegations of domestic abuse that Morand had previously suffered.
A police spokesperson elaborated: "It is alleged that Gillian was abused over a significant period of time, and it is further alleged that this abuse contributed to her death."
A Complex and Rare Investigation
Detective Chief Inspector Dan Whitten of the Metropolitan Police Service described the case as a "complex investigation" with very few similar charges authorized across the country. He emphasized the sensitivity of the situation, noting that the police are supporting Morand's family, who have requested privacy during this difficult time.
DCI Whitten also issued a public appeal: "I ask that anyone who was in contact with Gillian in the decade prior to her death contact us. Any information, irrespective of how insignificant it may seem, may be of considerable value."
This case is notably rare. Currently, there are only two other men in the entire country facing manslaughter charges over the deaths of women who killed themselves due to alleged domestic abuse.
Prosecution's Decision
Samantha Yelland, Senior Crown Prosecutor in the CPS London Homicide Unit, confirmed the decision to prosecute. "We have decided to prosecute Seyhan Assaf with manslaughter and controlling or coercive behaviour," she stated.
Yelland explained: "This decision comes after working closely with the Metropolitan Police as they have carried out their investigation into the death of Gillian Morand. Our prosecutors worked to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring these charges to court and that it is in the public interest to pursue criminal proceedings."
Legal Proceedings
Seyhan Assaf is scheduled to appear at Bromley Magistrates' Court on Saturday, March 7, 2026. The case underscores the legal system's evolving approach to holding individuals accountable in situations where sustained abusive behaviour is alleged to have directly contributed to a victim's suicide.
