Squiz Today A Squiz at September: Erin Patterson is sentenced, and criminal collectibles
Dec 31, 2025
This recap dives into the sentencing of Erin Patterson for the infamous 'mushroom murders', highlighting courtroom drama and emotional victim statements. Meanwhile, the assassination of activist Charlie Kirk raises concerns about safety in US politics, with an FBI manhunt underway for the suspect. An unexpected twist involves the seizure of counterfeit LaBubo collectibles, a bizarre trend causing safety alerts. Plus, the origins of Singapore noodles are revealed to be rooted in Hong Kong, not Singapore. Plenty of intrigue and surprises this month!
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High-Profile Case Sets Court Transparency Precedent
- The Erin Patterson case revealed how shocking, unusual crimes can seize national attention and shape legal precedent.
- It marked the first time Victoria's Supreme Court allowed cameras to live-stream sentencing to explain judicial reasoning promptly.
Mushroom Lunch Turned Fatal
- Erin Patterson served beef wellington laced with deadly mushrooms, killing three relatives and wounding a fourth guest.
- Justice Christopher Beale sentenced her to life with a 33-year non-parole period, calling the offending among the worst.
Sentence Highlights Victim Harm And Custody Risks
- The sentencing emphasised victim impact, noting the untold suffering inflicted on Patterson's children by losing grandparents.
- Patterson had already spent 676 days in custody, mostly isolated due to risk from other inmates.