Even after the shocking conviction of Erin Patterson—the woman at the center of the deadly mushroom lunch—there’s more to her story that could influence what happens next.
Despite being found guilty of murdering three of her relatives and attempting to kill a fourth, a rare psychological diagnosis might play a role in her sentencing.
A Psychological Twist Revealed Behind Bars
When Patterson was first locked up at the Dame Phyllis Frost Correctional Centre in late 2023, prison doctors diagnosed her with Munchausen syndrome—a complex mental condition where someone fakes or induces illness to gain attention and sympathy.
This diagnosis, made quietly two years ago, could potentially be used in her favor during sentencing.
While it’s unlikely to stop her from receiving a life sentence, it could influence how much time she spends behind bars or whether she gets the possibility of parole.
Pretending to Be Sick for Sympathy
Throughout her ten-week trial in Victoria’s Latrobe Valley, jurors heard how Patterson frequently faked health issues—including a false cancer diagnosis—to get care and attention from her in-laws, who later became her victims.
Ian Wilkinson, the sole survivor of the fatal lunch, recalled how Patterson told her guests she’d recently had a scan showing a tumor.
Don Patterson, one of the victims, had even told hospital staff that Erin mentioned having ovarian cancer.
But it was all a lie. Patterson admitted she never had any cancer-related appointments.
She confessed that the attention and concern from her family felt comforting—and she didn’t want that to stop.
The Conviction and What’s Coming Next
On July 7, a jury found Patterson guilty of murdering Don and Gail Patterson, and Heather Wilkinson, as well as attempting to murder Heather’s husband, Ian.
Now, the case moves into its next phase: sentencing.
While a date hasn’t been set, the plea hearing—expected sometime in August—will give her legal team a final shot to argue for a lighter sentence.
Patterson is currently facing a possible life sentence without parole, unless her lawyers can convince Justice Christopher Beale that there are strong enough reasons—like remorse or mental illness—for a more lenient outcome.
Can a Mental Condition Reduce Her Sentence?
In Victoria, courts are required to consider medical conditions and mental health when sentencing offenders.
Legal principles—known as Verdins principles—allow judges to take into account how mental illness affects someone’s moral responsibility, and how difficult prison life might be as a result.
Legal experts say it’s not uncommon for offenders with conditions like Munchausen syndrome to receive some leniency, especially if their mental health would make incarceration harsher than usual.
However, there’s no guarantee this will help Patterson.
Several insiders suggest she’s unlikely to cooperate or admit to any mental illness.
Life in Isolation
Sources say Patterson remains in solitary confinement, mostly for her own protection.
She spends nearly 24 hours a day alone, and contrary to earlier rumors, she isn’t working in the prison kitchen—or anywhere else.
“She’s not doing anything,” one source said.
“She’s not even allowed near the kitchen. Her meals are brought to her.”
Will She Try to Plead for Leniency?
For now, it’s unclear whether Patterson will submit to an evaluation by a forensic psychiatrist before sentencing.
According to those close to the case, her personality might stand in the way.
“She’s a narcissist,” one insider said. “She loves the attention.
I doubt she’ll change her story now or admit anything that might show weakness.”
Legal Hurdles Ahead
Criminal lawyer George Balot told Daily Mail Australia that mitigating factors—like previous good character, medical hardship, or mental illness—can influence a judge’s decision.
But courts tend to be cautious, especially in high-profile murder cases like this one.
“Sentencing someone with Munchausen Syndrome is never straightforward,” Balot explained.
“Even though it’s not a medically recognized diagnosis in the same way as other disorders, the courts do understand the psychological complexity.
But they also look at whether the person can be rehabilitated.”
What’s Next for Erin Patterson?
Patterson’s sentencing hearing is expected in the coming weeks.
Whether she receives a full life sentence or earns even a sliver of leniency will depend on how her legal team presents her mental health and her insight—or lack thereof—into her crimes.
As the public waits for the final chapter of this disturbing case, one thing remains clear: the fallout from that tragic lunch in Victoria is far from over.
