Man in court accused of manslaughter of woman who took her own life

A man has appeared in court accused of manslaughter and controlling behaviour following the death of a woman who took her own life nearly four years ago.

Jamie Jordan, 35, appeared before Plymouth Magistrates’ Court in connection with the death of Melanie Jordan, 37, in 2022, and spoke only to confirm his name, date of birth and address during the brief hearing.

The manslaughter charge alleges he unlawfully killed Ms Jordan on December 19, 2022.

The second charge alleges he engaged in controlling or coercive behaviour in an intimate or family relationship, between January 14, 2021 and December 17, 2022.

It is said he “repeatedly or continuously engaged in behaviour which was controlling or coercive, namely, emotionally, sexually, and physically controlling behaviour, towards Melanie Jordan, to whom, at the time of the behaviour, you were personally connected in that you were in an intimate relationship, that behaviour having a serious effect on her and you knew or ought to have known that the behaviour would have a serious effect on her”.

Ms Jordan died at Plymouth’s Derriford Hospital on December 19, 2022 after being found unresponsive at a property in the city days earlier.

District Judge Joanna Matson said the manslaughter allegation related to Ms Jordan taking her own life.

Referring to the court’s better case management form, the judge said: “The likely plea at the Crown Court is going to be not guilty, and Mr Jordan denies that there was any controlling behaviour or coercion on his part, and that he was responsible for Ms Jordan’s suicide.

“That’s what the issue would be at the Crown Court.”

The court heard police inquiries were launched as a result of a coronial investigation into Ms Jordan’s death.

Jordan, of Butterdon Walk, Ivybridge, Devon, was released on unconditional bail.

“I’m sending these matters to Plymouth Crown Court and there will be a pre-trial preparation hearing on December 14,” the judge said.

“I am going to grant you unconditional bail.”

If you are experiencing feelings of distress, or are struggling to cope, you can speak to the Samaritans, in confidence, on 116 123 (UK and ROI) or visit the Samaritans website to find details of your nearest branch.

If you are based in the USA, and you or someone you know needs mental health assistance right now, call or text 988, or visit 988lifeline.org to access online chat from the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This is a free, confidential crisis hotline that is available to everyone 24 hours a day, seven days a week. If you are in another country, you can go to www.befrienders.org to find a helpline near you.