Murder trial verdict: Erin Patterson receives a life sentence for the lethal mushroom poisoning of relatives
In a landmark case that has captured the attention of Victoria, Australia, and beyond, Erin Patterson has been sentenced to life in prison with a non-parole period of 33 years.
The Victorian Supreme Court handed down the sentence on Tuesday, following Patterson's conviction for the poisoning of four relatives with deadly death cap mushrooms (Amanita phalloides). The victims, all relatives by marriage to Patterson, were Don Patterson, Gail Patterson, Gail's sister Heather Wilkinson, and Heather's husband Ian Wilkinson.
Justice Christopher Beale stated that Patterson's crimes involved an enormous betrayal of trust. The poisoning occurred during a lunch of beef Wellington pastries laced with foraged death cap mushrooms.
Patterson, who had been in custody since she was charged on Nov. 2, 2023, maintained that she had added the mushrooms to the meals by accident. However, the court found that she had intentionally used the deadly mushrooms, a fact that Patterson had attempted to hide by claiming a diagnosis of cancer as a reason to bring her relatives together.
Ian Wilkinson spent weeks in a hospital due to the attempted murder. His account was accepted that the guests were served grey plates while Patterson ate from an orange-tan plate, to ensure she didn't accidentally eat a poisoned meal.
Both prosecution and defense lawyers agreed that a life sentence was an appropriate punishment for Patterson. The judge did not speculate on Patterson's motive for the poisonings.
The case has attracted enormous public interest, not just in Victoria, but nationally and internationally. In a first for the Victorian Supreme Court, a sentencing hearing was broadcast live on television.
Patterson has 28 days from her sentencing to appeal against her convictions and the severity of her sentence. Meanwhile, sign up for our Daily Briefing to stay updated on this developing story.
