Daughter Spared Jail After Mercy Killing of Terminally Ill Father

A woman has avoided jail after suffocating her terminally ill father to end his suffering. Dr. Lisa Davenport, described as a "devoted daughter," smothered her 88-year-old father, Barrie Davenport, in his bed on October 17, 2022. The act was considered a mercy killing, and the family has reportedly suffered greatly as a result.

The sentencing judge acknowledged Davenport's actions were motivated by compassion, but emphasized that taking matters into one's own hands is not permitted, regardless of the circumstances. The court heard that Davenport had been her father's primary caregiver during his final months, as he battled severe health issues, including aggressive pancreatic cancer. He was bedbound and in significant pain, expressing a desire to die. Medical experts agreed his death was expected imminently.

Mr. Davenport's rapid decline took a toll on his daughter, who was distressed by his suffering and what she perceived as a loss of dignity. She was also frustrated by what she believed was inadequate medical care and pain relief. The court heard that on the evening of October 17, Davenport, alone with her father, used a pillow to end his life.

The judge accepted that Davenport's sole motivation was to end her father's suffering, believing his death was near. He also acknowledged that the remaining time he had would likely have been spent in great pain. Davenport pleaded guilty to manslaughter by diminished responsibility and received a suspended prison sentence.

Outside the court, Davenport stated that her father wanted to die at home, but his condition deteriorated rapidly, and the community care system couldn't keep up. She felt he didn't receive adequate pain medication, and she had to watch him suffer. She accepted that her actions were against the law, but her family had paid a heavy price.

The prosecution stated that Mr. Davenport's death was expected to be imminent, and foul play was not initially suspected. Davenport confessed to a neighbor and friend of her father, asking her not to say anything. The following morning, she confessed to the manager of the retirement complex, who then reported it to the police. The prosecution acknowledged that Davenport was a devoted carer and that her actions were motivated by mercy.

The judge considered letters from Davenport's children, who recognized the seriousness of her actions but emphasized their love and need for her. She was also ordered to undergo treatment programs for her mental health and alcohol dependency, and was placed under a home curfew.