A 21-year-old British man from West Yorkshire has been formally charged with encouraging the suicide of a man located over 4,500 miles away in the United States, in a disturbing transatlantic case that highlights the borderless nature of certain digital crimes. Dylan Phelan, from Morley, West Yorkshire, is alleged to have encouraged a 21-year-old man in Louisiana to take his own life during a video call on October 30, 2024.
Separate Charges for Indecent Images and Extreme Pornography
The Crown Prosecution Service has confirmed that Mr Phelan faces additional, separate charges unrelated to the suicide allegation. These include making an indecent image of a child and possessing extreme pornography. Prosecutors emphasise that these charges are distinct from the suicide encouragement case, though all will proceed through the judicial system.
Prosecution Statement and Legal Warnings
Malcolm McHaffie, Head of the Crown Prosecution Service's Special Crime Division, stated: 'Our prosecutors have worked diligently to establish that there is sufficient evidence to bring this case to court and that pursuing criminal proceedings serves the public interest. We have collaborated closely with West Yorkshire Police throughout their investigation into the circumstances surrounding this tragic death.'
Mr McHaffie added: 'Our thoughts remain with the victim's family during this difficult time. We must remind all parties that proceedings against this defendant are active, and he retains the right to a fair trial. It is absolutely vital that no reporting, commentary, or online sharing of information occurs that could potentially prejudice these legal proceedings.'
Court Appearance and Potential Prison Sentences
Dylan Phelan is scheduled to appear at Leeds Magistrates' Court on February 11. According to the CPS, he faces a maximum sentence of 14 years in prison if convicted of encouraging suicide, an offence under Section 2 of the Suicide Act 1961.
The separate charge of making an indecent image of a child, prosecuted under the Protection of Children Act 1978, carries a maximum penalty of 10 years imprisonment. Meanwhile, the charge of possessing extreme pornography, outlawed under Section 63(1) of the Criminal Justice and Immigration Act 2008, has a maximum sentence of three years in prison.
Legal Framework and Investigative Collaboration
This case demonstrates the application of longstanding UK legislation to modern digital interactions. The charge of encouraging suicide relies on a law dating from 1961, now being applied to a video call spanning the Atlantic. The CPS has highlighted the close working relationship with West Yorkshire Police in building the evidential basis for these serious charges.
The prosecution stresses the importance of maintaining judicial integrity as the case moves forward, warning against any public discussion that might influence proceedings. With court dates set and maximum sentences clearly defined, this case will test how UK law addresses complex, internationally-connected digital offences.
