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Murder of schoolgirl, 15, stabbed to death by her jealous ex-boyfriend sparks a change in law around abusive teenage relationships
The Government is exploring a standalone definition of abuse in teenage relationships after a review of the Domestic Abuse Act. The change follows campaigning by Holly Newton’s family, who say current law failed to recognise her as a victim of domestic abuse because she was under 16.
Newton, 15, was killed in Hexham in January 2023 by her ex-boyfriend, Logan MacPhail, who was 16 at the time. He was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 17 years, for stabbing her 36 times; a boy who tried to intervene was also stabbed. Her family say a definition tailored to teenage relationships could better reflect young people’s experiences and improve their access to support.
In short
- Government is considering a definition of teenage relationship abuse.
- Holly Newton’s family has campaigned for stronger protections.
- Newton’s ex-boyfriend received a life sentence with a 17-year minimum.
Steelman: both sides, in good faith
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The case for
A standalone definition could recognise that coercive and controlling behaviour occurs in teenage relationships and that young people under 16 may need support even when adult-focused legal definitions do not cover them. Campaigners argue clearer recognition could help services identify abuse earlier and respond to young people’s circumstances, potentially preventing harm.
The case against
A new legal definition should be carefully designed so it does not blur the distinction between harmful abuse and ordinary conflict or impose adult assumptions on teenage relationships. Critics could argue that existing safeguarding and criminal laws may already address serious behaviour, and that improving training, support and enforcement could help without adding a definition whose scope or practical effect is unclear.
Explained simply
Domestic abuse can take place between people who are dating or have been in a relationship, and the law in England and Wales sets out how it is defined and who it covers. The Domestic Abuse Act provides a framework for recognising abuse and for offering protection and support.
The Act’s definition applies to people aged 16 and over who are personally connected, including current or former partners. Holly Newton’s family say that because she was 15, the law did not recognise her as a victim of domestic abuse. They have campaigned for a definition that takes account of abusive relationships involving younger teenagers.
The Government is considering whether to create a separate definition for teenage relationships as part of its review of the Act. How abuse is defined can affect how young people’s experiences are understood and what support they can access.
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Originally published by Daily Mail as “Murder of schoolgirl, 15, stabbed to death by her jealous ex-boyfriend sparks a change in law around abusive teenage relationships”.