The heartbroken mother of Kennedi Westcarr-Sabaroche, tragically killed by her boyfriend, is calling on the Prime Minister to address what she describes as a “systemic collapse” in the justice system. Gogoa Lois Tape, the boyfriend, was recently detained under the Mental Health Act for the crime committed in Hackney, East London, last year.
Tape, initially charged with murder, pled guilty to manslaughter due to diminished responsibility. The court heard he was suffering from schizophrenia at the time. While Judge Freya Newbery’s hospital order means Tape won’t be released until deemed fit, this decision has left Kennedi’s mother, Linda Westcarr, devastated.
In a powerful letter to Sir Keir Starmer, Linda accuses the justice system of failing women, arguing that domestic violence cases are getting swept under the rug. She’s urging the government to reevaluate how psychiatric evidence is used in murder cases and to reconsider sentencing processes for diminished responsibility cases.
“Is this justice, or a betrayal?” Linda questions. She fears Tape could be released earlier than expected, leaving the public with the troubling message that women can be killed with impunity if their assailant is considered “unwell.”
Despite meetings with the Crown Prosecution Service, who support their decision based on medical evidence, Linda demands urgent reforms and a direct meeting with government officials to address these pressing issues.
This tragic story highlights the critical need for reform in handling domestic violence and mental health in the justice system. Our hearts go out to Kennedi’s family during this unimaginably difficult time. ❤️