Children testify they feared for mother's safety in murder trial
Children testified they wanted their mother away from their father for her safety during his murder trial.
Robert John Crawford, 49, a former RAAF pilot, is on trial in Brisbane for murdering his wife Frances Crawford, 49, in July 2024. Crawford has pleaded not guilty.
Prosecutors say he killed her and staged the death as a ride-on mower accident at their Upper Lockyer property. During this week's trial, their adult children testified about deep concerns for their mother's safety.
Jake Crawford told the jury he was scared for her safety. None of the children wanted her living with their father.
Jessie Crawford described feeling hurt when her parents reconciled after separating. She said her mother was a different person when away from him.
Both children testified they never saw their mother use the ride-on mower. The jury heard the couple had serious relationship issues stemming from the father's multiple instances of cheating.
Why it mattersChildren's testimony shapes how juries evaluate family dynamics in cases where death follows years of relationship conflict.
AustraliaThe trial unfolds in Queensland courts and draws media attention as a high-profile case affecting a family across the state.
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 2 h ago
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