Australian Court to Consider Clearing Kathleen Folbigg's Murder Convictions of 4 Children Based on New Evidence

Scientific evidence suggests that the children, believed to have been murdered by their mother, died of rare genetic conditions; Ms. Folbigg pardoned earlier this year and released after 20-year imprisonment.

• Kathleen Folbigg, once infamous as Australia's worst female serial killer, could have her convictions for the death of her 4 children overturned. The New South Wales state government pardoned her this year following 20 years of imprisonment, as new evidence revealed the children's deaths could have been from natural causes.
• Critical to the reevaluation of Folbigg's case is the new scientific evidence suggesting her children's deaths were actually results of rare genetic conditions, and not as previously accused, through smothering.
• Leading the state inquiry into Folbigg's case, Tom Bathurst reported that the siblings, Sarah and Laura Folbigg, were found to have a rare genetic mutation, while Patrick Folbigg may have had a 'neurogenic condition,' which potentially clears Folbigg of any suspicion in relation to Caleb Folbigg's death as well.
• While evidence against Folbigg during her trial included diary entries expressing frustration with her children and blaming herself, Bathurst stated these entries only demonstrated occasional fatigue and general frustration typical of primary carers, while reinforcing that Folbigg was a loving and caring mother.
• The case has gained international attention from scientists who petitioned for Folbigg's release, sending the case to the highest level of Australia's court system with a strong recommendation to clear Folbigg's criminal record.

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