FiLiA STATEMENT: SALLY CHALLEN

FiLiA is delighted that a panel of Court of Appeal judges have quashed the conviction of Sally Challen for the murder of her husband in this landmark ruling. This case marks a recognition of ‘coercive control’, a form of psychological abuse, as potentially diminishing responsibility.

When Challen was convicted, sexist media coverage surrounding the trial depicted her as manipulative, deranged and emotionally defective while eschewing any serious consideration of her mental health. Though Challen faces a retrial, FiLiA hopes that this ruling represents a step towards more nuanced and compassionate treatment of abused women, both in the media and the UK courts.

by Adeline Chandler

#FreeSallyChallen