Milne’s conviction is the first of its kind in Scotland, though similar cases have been heard in English courts.
Nicholas Allen was jailed for 10 years in 2017 for the manslaughter of his ex-girlfriend after she killed herself as a “direct result” of his controlling behaviour.
The case in Stafford was thought to be the first manslaughter case brought in such circumstances.
In 2018, Steven Gane, of Upminster, was jailed for “driving his partner to suicide” through domestic abuse – though it was an inquest that ultimately concluded he was responsible for her unlawful killing.
On Kimberly Milne, Scotland’s Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service (COPFS) said it had been a “landmark case”.
COPFS legal director Laura Buchan said: “This prosecution sought to answer a complex question – can a partner be held criminally responsible for the death of a victim who has taken their own life following a course of domestic abuse?
“Lee Milne physically and psychologically abused Kimberly and our evidence showed that this abuse was a significant contributing factor in her death.
“He deliberately and ruthlessly exploited Kimberly’s vulnerabilities which makes him culpable for her decision to end her own life.”
If you, or someone you know, have been affected by domestic abuse or violence, help is available via BBC Action Line.
