Mushroom murderer trial undermined by 'catastrophic' hotel mix-up, appeal court told

Erin Patterson, serving a life sentence for killing three relatives and attempting to kill another, had her conviction called into question due to a hotel mix-up. The jury, along with prosecutors and a key witness, stayed at the same hotel during deliberations, raising concerns about the trial's integrity. Patterson and her lawyers argued that some evidence was too speculative, while crucial evidence for their defense was improperly excluded.

Victoria's Director of Public Prosecutions is also appealing the 33-year parole period, claiming it is excessively lenient. Patterson's victims include her in-laws Don and Gail Patterson, and Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson. The appeal judges heard that jurors' stay at the same hotel as prosecutors and witnesses had undermined the trial's fairness.

Patterson did not attend the Court of Appeal in person, instead watching via video link, while her estranged husband Simon, the only surviving guest of the lunch, was also absent. The appeal judges will reserve their decision, with a possible ruling in weeks.