Five key takeaways from triple murderer Erin Patterson's appeal
Erin Patterson was found guilty of three murders and one attempted murder last year. This week, she appealed her convictions. Here are some key points we learned from the hearings.
In a recent appeal to the Victorian Court of Appeal, Erin Patterson, a triple murderer, sought to overturn her convictions and challenge the severity of her jail term. Patterson's lawyers argued that her conviction should be overturned due to errors during her trial. The jury was lodged in the same hotel as the police informant and some solicitors from the Office of Public Prosecutions during the deliberations.
However, the prosecution dismissed this argument as "far-fetched" and without substance. One of the main grounds for Patterson's lawyers to overturn her murder conviction is the discovery of photos on an SD card in her home, showing mushrooms and her children. The photos were initially ruled out as trial evidence but later included.
Patterson remains in protective custody and has access to various amenities in prison, including a library and regular video calls with her children. Her lawyers raised concerns about her being kept in solitary confinement, which the prosecution disputed. The prosecution also lodged an appeal, arguing that 33 years is not enough time for Patterson to serve for her crimes, which involved cruelty, betrayal, and significant planning.
The survivor of the deadly lunch, Ian Wilkinson, attended the appeal hearings to show support for Patterson.
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