contempt of Court Investigation Ongoing Following On-Air Comments About Erin Patterson
Authorities are continuing to assess whether comments made by radio personalities Kyle Sandilands and Jackie Henderson regarding convicted mushroom murderer Erin Patterson constitute contempt of court.The potential for charges arises from remarks made on their KIIS FM show shortly after Patterson’s conviction, including assertions about her guilt and prior behavior.
The case centers on the deaths of Amanda and Leo Patterson, and Patterson’s former mother-in-law, Gail Patterson, after a meal at her home in Leongatha, Victoria, in July 2023. Patterson was found guilty of all charges in november 2024. The ongoing investigation into Sandilands and Henderson’s broadcast highlights the legal boundaries surrounding public commentary during active or recent legal proceedings, aiming to protect the integrity of the judicial process and ensure fair trials.
During the broadcast, Sandilands stated, “Not strong, not strong for her,” when asked about the strength of Patterson’s potential appeal. He further commented, “Hasn’t she done something like this before, with the mushrooms?” and, “But the rest of us already know… you can tell by looking at her, just lock that bitch up.”
Co-host Jackie Henderson was heard laughing during Sandilands’ remarks.She later cautioned, “Well, until it’s your turn one day, where you’re accused, right?” Sandilands responded, “What am I going to get accused of?”
Lawyers for Patterson formally notified the court on Thursday that she intends to appeal her convictions. The contempt investigation remains separate from the appeal process, and its outcome could result in penalties for Sandilands and/or Henderson if authorities determine their comments prejudiced the administration of justice.
