Britain's Got Talent Contestant Found Dead After Arrest for Child Sex Offence Allegations
An inquest has revealed that a former Britain's Got Talent contestant was arrested for 'child sex offending' just three days before she was found dead in a suspected suicide. Kerri-Anne Donaldson, aged 38, was under police investigation over allegations she committed a sex crime against a child when she was discovered hanged at her home in Farnborough, Hampshire, in June 2023.
Police Risk Assessment and Arrest Details
Winchester Coroner's Court heard that police carried out an enhanced risk assessment as part of their investigation into Ms Donaldson. Detective Chief Superintendent Sarah McConnell explained that the offence she was accused of was associated with an 'increased risk of self harm or suicide'. Ms Donaldson was arrested on June 4, 2023, taken into custody at Aldershot police station, and later released before going missing.
She was found deceased three days later. The court was told that Ms Donaldson had urged the child who accused her not to report the crime, threatening she would commit suicide if it came to light. Coroner Jason Pegg noted this detail during proceedings.
Events Leading to the Tragedy
After her release, Ms Donaldson went missing and was found at a Travelodge, having overdosed. She was taken to hospital where her sister, Cara Donaldson, was informed that she might need to be sectioned. On June 6, Ms Donaldson was discharged, and Cara took her to her own house, leaving later that evening after being assured her sister would not harm herself.
The next morning, Cara discovered a note at the top of the staircase at Ms Donaldson's home stating, 'Call 999, don't come in, I'm sorry'. Ms Donaldson was declared dead that day. The inquest heard that she had expressed fears of facing a prison sentence and having her reputation ruined, telling a psychiatric liaison nurse she 'didn't want to live that life'.
Background and Tributes
Kerri-Anne Donaldson reached the semi-final of Britain's Got Talent in 2014 as part of the dance troupe Kings and Queens. She performed alongside Strictly Come Dancing professionals such as Neil and Katya Jones, and other members included Kai Widdrington. In a tribute during the inquest, her sister described her as having a 'heart of gold' and being a fantastic dance teacher loved by the community.
Strictly professional Neil Jones paid tribute on social media, calling her 'like a big sister' and highlighting her passion for dance and performance. The four-day inquest continues, with further details expected to emerge about the investigation and circumstances surrounding her death.
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