Erin Patterson's trial has begun in a Victorian court, where she faces allegations of murdering her in-laws by serving them a lunch infused with deadly death cap mushrooms.
The 50-year-old Patterson is charged with three counts of murder and one count of attempted murder linked to a beef wellington meal she hosted at her home in South Gippsland in 2023.
A jury of 15 members was sworn in on Tuesday for the supreme court proceedings.
Patterson has pleaded not guilty to the charges of murdering or attempting to murder the relatives of her estranged husband, Simon Patterson.
She is accused of killing Simon’s parents, Don and Gail Patterson, and his aunt Heather Wilkinson, as well as attempting to murder Ian Wilkinson, Simon’s uncle and Heather’s husband.
Opening arguments are expected to be delivered on Wednesday by prosecutor Nanette Rogers SC and defense attorney Colin Mandy SC.
Justice Christopher Beale informed the jury that Patterson is no longer charged with attempting to murder her estranged husband, instructing them to disregard any thoughts related to those charges.
The jury comprises 10 men and five women, with three serving as reserve jurors, while only 12 will be responsible for reaching a verdict.
Beale cautioned the jurors against consuming any media coverage of the case, whether through television, newspapers, or online platforms.
“It is your duty to make your decision based solely on the evidence presented. You must ignore all other influences,” he emphasized.
“You should set aside any biases or sympathies you may possess … your task is to assess the evidence logically, not emotionally.
“Completely disregard anything you have seen or heard in the media, including social media, about this case and the individuals involved.”
The trial in Morwell is set to continue.
More information will be provided soon …