news.sky.com
Campaign to Make Non-Fatal Strangulation Standalone Offense in Scotland
Fiona Drouet, whose daughter died by suicide after being strangled by her boyfriend, is campaigning to make non-fatal strangulation a standalone crime in Scotland, arguing current laws are insufficient and don't reflect the severity of the act; while Police Scotland and the Crown Office express concerns this could dilute current laws.
- What are the immediate consequences of the current legal framework for non-fatal strangulation in Scotland, as highlighted by Fiona Drouet's campaign?
- Following the death of her daughter Emily, who died by suicide after being strangled by her boyfriend, Fiona Drouet is campaigning to make non-fatal strangulation a standalone offense in Scotland. Emily's boyfriend received only community service for the assault. Ms. Drouet founded EmilyTest to combat gender-based violence in universities.
- How do the perspectives of Police Scotland and the Crown Office on a standalone offense for non-fatal strangulation differ from those of campaigners like Fiona Drouet?
- Ms. Drouet's campaign highlights the insufficient legal response to non-fatal strangulation in Scotland, where it's currently prosecuted under existing assault laws. The campaign argues that a standalone offense would act as a greater deterrent and improve data collection on these incidents, which are often linked to domestic homicides. Police Scotland and the Crown Office have concerns that a new law might dilute existing legislation.
- What are the potential long-term impacts, both positive and negative, of creating a standalone offense for non-fatal strangulation in Scotland on prosecution rates, data collection, and public awareness?
- While Police Scotland and the Crown Office acknowledge the severity of non-fatal strangulation and its potential lethality, they express concerns about the practical implications of a standalone offense. The debate centers on balancing the need for a stronger deterrent and improved data collection with potential negative impacts on prosecution rates. The Scottish government is conducting a comprehensive assessment to determine if changes are necessary.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The narrative is framed strongly around Fiona Drouet's emotional testimony and personal experience. The headline and introduction immediately highlight her daughter's tragic death and the campaign for legal change. This emphasis on the emotional impact of non-fatal strangulation might sway readers' opinions in favor of creating a standalone offense, potentially overshadowing the more nuanced legal arguments presented later in the article. The sequencing of information places the emotional narrative at the forefront, potentially influencing how readers interpret the subsequent legal arguments.
Language Bias
The article uses emotionally charged language, such as "ultimate act of control," "horrendous abuse," and "near-death experience." While these phrases accurately reflect the severity of non-fatal strangulation, their use might evoke strong emotional responses from readers, potentially influencing their assessment of the issue. More neutral phrasing, such as "severe act of violence," "serious abuse," and "life-threatening incident," could offer a more balanced presentation. The repeated emphasis on the emotional trauma adds to the overall emotional tone.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the campaign to make non-fatal strangulation a standalone offense in Scotland, giving significant voice to Fiona Drouet and her perspective. However, it omits perspectives from those who oppose the change, such as the concerns raised by Police Scotland regarding potential dilution of existing laws and difficulties in evidence gathering. While acknowledging Police Scotland's concerns, the article doesn't delve deeply into their arguments or offer counterpoints from legal experts who might support the current system. The omission of diverse viewpoints might limit the reader's ability to form a fully informed opinion.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified eitheor framing by focusing primarily on the debate between creating a standalone offense and maintaining the current system. It doesn't adequately explore alternative solutions, such as enhancing existing legislation or improving training and awareness programs. This framing risks oversimplifying a complex issue and may lead readers to believe that only these two options exist.
Gender Bias
The article centers on the experience of a mother whose daughter was a victim of gender-based violence. While this is a crucial perspective, it predominantly features women's voices (Fiona Drouet, Emily's friends via text messages). While male perspectives are included (from Police Scotland and Dr Forbes), their input is presented in response to the central narrative dominated by female experiences. More balanced representation of male and female perspectives within the legal and enforcement systems would enhance the article's objectivity.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the issue of gender-based violence, specifically non-fatal strangulation, which disproportionately affects women. Creating a standalone offense for non-fatal strangulation would improve data collection, act as a greater deterrent, and potentially lead to more convictions, thereby contributing to gender equality and the safety of women. The efforts of EmilyTest, founded by Fiona Drouet, directly contribute to SDG 5 by tackling gender-based violence in universities and colleges. The article showcases the impact of gender-based violence and advocates for legal changes to better protect victims.