020] The father of two, who has languished in jail for 13 years for the murder of his partner Stacey Thorne, has been granted a retrial following a successful Supreme Court appeal.
The major legal victory announced Friday follows a two-year investigation by 7NEWS’ Michael Usher which presented convincing proof that crucial evidence against Austic was planted by police.
7NEWS will broadcast a special report, hosted by Michael Usher, tonight at 9.45pm, detailing the case. 7NEWS Presents: Framed will feature explosive new evidence, fresh insight from legal and forensic experts at the centre of the case and exclusive interviews with Austic’s mother and daughter – two determined women and their untold story in how they could never let this go.
Commenting on the landmark win, Austic’s mother Robyn Austic said: “We’re very grateful for 7NEWS and Michael Usher for shining a big spotlight on Scott’s case, and so is he. The Seven report on the investigation into the case gave Scott’s legal fight a huge push, and was crucial in winning the right to appeal. We’re very thankful.”
Michael Usher added: “This is a big victory. Scott’s mother and daughters and his entire legal team have fought so hard for this. Now he gets a chance to have the evidence truly tested.”
Austic was convicted in 2009 and sentenced to life in prison for the stabbing murder of Stacey in Boddington, 120km from Perth. Austic, his family and team of lawyers and forensic experts have always maintained he didn’t do it.
The original 7NEWS investigation, which aired in 2018, led WA Attorney-General John Quigley to refer Austic’s case back to the Court of Appeal.
7NEWS Presents: Framed airs tonight at 9.45pm on 7 and 7plus
