Trial of Mark Sheridan Waden to Restart After Juror Misconduct
The jury in the trial of Mark Sheridan Waden, accused of murdering his girlfriend Priscilla Brooten in 2018, has been discharged after a juror conducted online research and shared findings with other jurors. The trial will restart on Wednesday with a new jury.
Key Events
Juror Misconduct
A juror searched for side effects of medication taken by Brooten and informed other jurors. Another juror noted this was not permitted, leading to a defense application for discharge. Justice Peter Callaghan granted the application with regret.
Police Body-Worn Camera Footage
The jury had viewed approximately 13 minutes of footage from December 2018, showing Waden in the doorway of his Brisbane home. In the footage, Waden told a police officer about Brooten's "hidden secrets" and stated they had split up earlier that year.
Waden's Police Statement
In a December 2018 statement, Waden detailed his relationship with Brooten, including her secretive behavior, erratic emotions, suicidal ideation, and use of different identities. He said he threatened to report her to immigration, after which she left in June 2018. He claimed he believed she had gone to another man, Steve Thompson.
Witness Testimony
Acting Sergeant Jamie Buley testified that in September 2018, Thompson and another person reported concerns about Brooten's welfare. Buley called Waden, who said Brooten had left him three weeks earlier and that he had no concerns.
Psychologist's Evidence
Dr. Simone Baker, who assessed Brooten, testified that Brooten felt worthless and had a history of unhealthy relationships. Brooten mentioned past abuse but did not elaborate.
Background
Priscilla Brooten, a US citizen and former beauty queen, disappeared from her Brisbane home in 2018.
Waden, a Zumba instructor, met Brooten and later began a relationship with another woman, Desiree Hatzipapas. The prosecution alleges Waden killed Brooten after an argument, possibly disposed of her body at a tip, and gave her belongings to Hatzipapas.
Waden has pleaded not guilty.
The trial will continue with a new jury on Wednesday.