Convicted killer receives thousands in benefits from secure psychiatric unit

Gogoa Lois Tape, convicted of manslaughter for strangling his girlfriend Kennedi Westcarr-Sabaroche in 2024, was sent to a secure psychiatric unit rather than prison due to diminished responsibility linked to mental health issues exacerbated by heavy cannabis use. As a result, Tape remains eligible to claim up to £400 a month in universal credit benefits, a loophole that allows patients in psychiatric detention, unlike prisoners, to receive state handouts. This situation has sparked outrage among the victim's family, who describe it as a "staggering injustice" and argue that the killer has effectively "got away with murder." The family is scheduled to meet with Work and Pensions Secretary Pat McFadden to discuss closing this benefits loophole, which currently allows serious offenders detained under the Mental Health Act to accumulate substantial sums while taxpayers cover their care. Government officials have been urged to urgently review the policy to prevent offenders in psychiatric hospitals from claiming welfare payments. The case highlights ongoing concerns about the intersection of mental health, criminal justice, and welfare entitlements in the UK.