Juror discharged for discussing mushroom trial with family, friends

A juror has been discharged from the Erin Patterson trial after it emerged he had been discussing the case with family and friends.

The male juror was formally released from the panel of 15 jurors on Thursday morning by Justice Christopher Beale.

Justice Beale said there was a "reasonable possibility" information about the juror discussing the case with outsiders was credible but no findings had been reached as to the man’s possible misconduct.

Justice Beale told the remaining jurors confidential discussions were "vital to the administration of justice".

"I want to remind you of my directions. You should only discuss the case with your fellow jurors in the privacy of the jury room," he said.

Fourteen jurors remained on the case.

When all the evidence had been presented, two other jurors would be balloted off to leave a final 12 to decide whether Erin Patterson was guilty or acquitted of murder and attempted murder charges.

The 50-year-old has been charged with three counts of murder and one of attempted murder over the July 29, 2023 meal but she has pleaded not guilty, claiming the meal was a terrible accident.

Her estranged husband Simon Patterson's parents, Don and Gail, and his aunty Heather Wilkinson all died in hospital from death cap mushroom poisoning after eating toxic beef Wellingtons.

The only survivor from the lunch was Heather's husband Ian.