From the high-country killings to the Easey Street murders and the deadly mushroom lunch, there has been a spate of recent crimes in Victoria that have attracted intense media and public attention. An RMIT criminology expert explains why.
Associate Professor Brianna Chesser, School of Global, Urban and Social Studies
"It's just chance that there have been so many unusual murders in Victoria over the past few years. But there have also been plenty of examples from across Australia that have piqued the public's interest.
"We have unfortunately been desensitised to reports of violence, and incidents like gangland killings, so when there's something unusual, like two people murdered in the bush or someone allegedly feeding people poisonous mushrooms, it tends to make a juicy headline and people get intrigued about who they are and how it happened.
"We've always been fascinated with crime, even back to the Edwardian times, there's been a real interest in serial killers. It's part of the natural fascination we have with other humans. And the flipside, I like to think, is an extension of human empathy.
"With increased public interest, these crimes are being reported more regularly and in greater depth by the media. For example, we're hearing about the cross examination of an accused person, which people wouldn't usually find interesting. The wider community has an increased knowledge of the criminal justice system.
"One of the unifying factors in these crimes is mental health. Erin Patterson described her depression and low self-esteem. The mental health status of Greg Lynn was also raised. That's an indication that we need to look at improving community and mental health support."
Dr Brianna Chesser is a clinical forensic psychologist and criminal lawyer. She is an Associate Professor in Criminology and Justice in the School of Global, Urban and Social Studies at RMIT University.
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