She was convicted of a crime so monstrous it beggars belief: methodically murdering her four kids over a 10-year period. The children all died before they turned two.
Kathleen Folbigg, who lived in Sydney, Australia, was dubbed the nation’s worst female serial killer and her case made headlines around the world. Her trial dominated the news and by the end of it she was sentenced to 40 years in jail for killing her children – Caleb, Patrick, Sarah and Laura.
But Kathleen (now 53) has always maintained her innocence, claiming her babies died of natural causes. And now experts say she may have been telling the truth all along.
New studies point to the fact the children all had a rare genetic mutation that may have contributed to their deaths. A team of top scientists are now calling for Kathleen’s conviction to be overturned. The group, which includes two Nobel laureates, are petitioning New South Wales governor Margaret Beazley to pardon the convicted woman.
Professor John Shine, president of the Australian Academy of Science, is part of a team of 90 scientists requesting the review. “Given the scientific and medical evidence that now exists, signing this petition was the right thing to do,” he says.
During her trial, prosecutors argued that Kathleen had smothered her children out of frustration. Witnesses testified they’d never seen a case of four children dying suddenly and unexpectedly in their sleep in the same family.
This story is from the 25 March 2021 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the 25 March 2021 edition of YOU South Africa.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 8,500+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
THE MICHAEL'S ANGELS
The king of pop's kids are a close-knit trio who guard their privacy fiercely
BARBIES ON THE GO!
Sending their dolls 'travelling' around the country started as way to escape everyday life during the pandemic and four years later they're still going strong
THE ROAD LESS TRAVELLED
These musician decided to pack up their lives and trek across the country - with three kids in tow!
TALES FROM THE DIRECTOR'S CHAIR
After 40 years in Tinseltown, filmmaker Ed Zwick is spilling the beans about the stars with the biggest egos in his tell-all memoir - and he doesn't regret a thing
India's national election
SOUTH Africa isn't the only country holding an election this year - America and India, among others, are also heading to the polls. Most countries hold elections every five years, and it typically takes place one day before the votes are counted.
IS YOUR BRA HARMING YOUR HEALTH?
Wearing the wrong bra size can cause more than discomfort - a poor fit can lead to bigger problems
MY STORY IS ONE OF HOPE
She was born with a rare condition that affects her muscles but it hasn't stopped Kerry from getting a degree or writing a book
DEATH FROM ABOVE
Drones, like the one used to kill seven aid workers in Gaza, are becoming common in battlefields
FINALLY I'M FREE
IT STARTED innocently enough, with a Bible study group, scripture readings and prayers in the suburbs of Centu rion.
CONJOINED IN HOLY MATRIMONY
Abby and Brittany have again sparked public interest after Abby's 2021 wedding recently made headlines