Home / Crime and Justice / Gambling Deaths: Inquest Battle for Justice
Gambling Deaths: Inquest Battle for Justice
10 Jan
Summary
- Coroner ruled gambling disorder contributed to a man's death.
- Family faced a 'battle' to have gambling considered at inquest.
- Experts highlight systemic failures in gambling suicide inquests.
The family of Lee Adams, who died by suicide in July 2020 after placing hundreds of online bets, has described their inquest experience as a protracted 'battle'. It took over five years for a coroner to rule in November 2025 that a gambling disorder contributed to his death. His cousin, Natalie Ashbolt, highlighted the significant challenges in persuading the coroner to investigate the impact of gambling.
Adams's family, with support from a campaign group, had to hire lawyers to ensure gambling was thoroughly examined during the inquest. This situation is not unique, as legal representatives note that such inquests are rare despite an estimated 500 gambling-related suicides annually in England. The family emphasized the difficulty and expense involved, fearing other bereaved families may not achieve similar outcomes.
Experts and campaign groups argue that the system is failing to adequately address gambling-related suicides. They call for increased awareness among coroners regarding the link between gambling disorder and suicide, and for better support for families navigating the inquest process. Recent guidelines from NICE recommend GPs inquire about gambling habits, underscoring the growing recognition of its public health impact.
