Criminal psychologist on accused high country killer taking the stand

Published Jun 6, 2024, 10:07 PM

Accused high country killer Greg Lynn, has apologised to the families of Carol Clay and Russell Hill, as he told his side of the story from the witness box. The former Jetstar pilot described how he disposed of their bodies and lied to his wife about the case. But he testified that he was innocent of the couple's murder.

For more, Criminal Psychologist, Tim Watson-Munro joins.

Accused High Country killer Greg Lynn has apologized to the families of Carol Clay and Russell Hill as he told his side of the story from the witness box. The former Jetstar pilot described how he disposed of their bodies and lied to his wife about the case, but he testified that he was innocent of the couple's murder. Criminal psychologist Tim Watson Munroe joins us, now, good morning to you again. Well, Greg Lynn directly addressed the families of his alleged victims, saying he's sorry for their suffering. How difficult must that have been for those loved ones?

Well, speaking in general principles Sherba, so we mustn't cross sub judicy issues. Very difficult for families in general. What they're dealing with is the accused person, the person who's allegedly killed a loved one. They've been exposed to harrying evidence. But I think when somebody's in the witness box, it's more personal, it's more confrontational. I think it takes great courage for people to sit through this type of evidence.

How often does a defendant take to the witness box in their own trial.

It's not common. It's generally done to give the jury an opportunity to test the bona farides of the accused person. It's fraught with risk, of course, because they're on oath and subject to cross examination, so it's not that common, but it's a psychological tool, our guess, to give the jury an opportunity to test how real this person is and to test their honesty.

The jury is expected to hear final addresses on Tuesday. In that case, Tim, thanks for your time.

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