Chris Dawson appeals his 2022 murder conviction, arguing the verdict was unreasonable, while in a separate incident, Justin Laurens Stein’s murder trial of a young girl continues, spotlighting the NSW legal system.
Chris Dawson, convicted in 2022 for the murder of his wife Lynette Dawson in 1982, is currently appealing his conviction in New South Wales. His lawyer, Belinda Rigg SC, argued that the guilty verdict was unreasonable, presenting evidence that Dawson had attempted to mend his marriage through counselling and had a seemingly positive relationship with Lynette prior to her disappearance. Additionally, Rigg challenged the alleged motive, pointing out that Lynette’s body has never been found and suggesting she might have left voluntarily due to their strained relationship. Dawson, whose parole eligibility depends on disclosing Lynette’s whereabouts, could face lifelong imprisonment, with his sentence set until August 2046. The appeal decision, which will have significant implications on his future, is pending.
In a separate case, Justin Laurens Stein, 33, is being tried for the murder of nine-year-old Charlise Mutten in the Blue Mountains. Stein, who has a history of heroin addiction and schizophrenia, allegedly shot Charlise, with her body later found in a barrel. He was involved romantically with Charlise’s mother, Kallista Mutten, with whom he previously co-committed a break-in. Presiding over the emotionally charged trial, Justice Helen Wilson emphasized the importance of jury impartiality. The trial is set to continue over a six-week period.
