Kyle and Jackie O Avoid contempt Charges Over Trial Comments
Melbourne, Australia – Radio hosts Kyle Sandilands and Jackie ‘O’ Henderson will not face contempt of court charges following controversial on-air comments made during the trial of Erin Patterson, accused of poisoning family members. The Office of Public Prosecutions confirmed Wednesday that no charges would be laid regarding the comments made on thier show, The Kyle and Jackie O Show, as well as a Mamamia podcast episode and a public presentation by Dr. Rachel Toles.
The decision comes after concerns were raised that the commentary could potentially prejudice the jury. Justice Beale previously condemned the radio show’s remarks on June 16, stating, “I have read a transcript of that commentary. I encourage all commentators to engage their brains before they open their mouths, as they may otherwise land themselves and their organisations in hot water.” He also addressed the mamamia podcast on June 5, describing it as “full of highly prejudicial expressions of opinion” and noting it had been taken down after being directed to do so.
However, the Office of Public Prosecutions persistent that “none of the incidents had a clear tendency, as a matter of practical reality, to prejudice the fair trial of Ms Patterson on the charges against her.” A spokesperson added, “It is indeed considered that the required elements of contempt could not be proved beyond reasonable doubt, and there are no reasonable prospects of conviction for the referred incidents.”
The ruling underscores the strict guidelines media outlets face during ongoing jury trials, requiring them to report only facts presented in court to protect jurors from external influence. Breaching these rules can result in significant fines, jail time, or even the abandonment of a trial.
Kyle and Jackie O have a history of controversial on-air segments. In October, they were found to have breached decency rules by broadcasting segments deemed inappropriate by the Australian Communications and Media Authority (ACMA), involving discussions of urination, genitals, a sex game, and pornography websites.
