Networked Knowledge - Media Report

This version of the report has been prepared by: Dr Robert N Moles

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On 9 October 2008 Todd Cardy of PerthNow reported “Jiao Dan murder trial to proceed”.

He said the man accused of the brutal murder of international student Jiao Dan will stand trial next year, ending speculation the case would collapse because of contaminated evidence. Prosecutors told the WA Supreme Court last month that the case against Dannie Adam Wright hinged on an updated DNA forensic evidence following claims that three exhibits had been contaminated by a policeman’s DNA. The report was to detail if other exhibits had been compromised.

During a status conference in the court today, defence lawyer Laura Timpano, for Mr Wright, said she had received the updated report from PathWest on September 11. Ms Timpano said preparations should continue for the 15-day trial, now listed for March next year, but she had sent the 1600-page forensic document to an independent expert for analysis and her position might change. ``So long as there are no more surprises, the trial will go ahead in March,’’ Ms Timpano said.

Mr Wright, 36, today appeared via video link from Casuarina prison where he has been in custody since his arrest for the wilful murder of the 22-year-old from China. Police allege Miss Jiao was attacked as she walked home from Stirling train station on October 8 last year. Her semi-naked body was discovered just metres from her home on the front lawn of a house in Oswald St, Innaloo.

Mr Wright, who remains in custody, will reappear in court in December for another trial status conference. He has pleaded not guilty.

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