Hotel mix-up threatens outcome of Australian mushroom-murder appeal
Australian Erin Patterson, jailed for poisoning three relatives with death-cap mushrooms, is appealing after a 'catastrophic' hotel mix-up that saw jurors stay in the same hotel as prosecutors and a key witness, raising questions over verdict integrity. Her lawyers contend trial evidence was speculative and crucial material was excluded, while prosecutors argue the verdicts were justified; separately, Victoria's Director of Public Prosecutions is appealing a 33-year parole period as inadequate. A retrial or further sentencing decisions could follow, with a ruling expected weeks from now.