A 40-year-old man from southern Tasmania has pleaded guilty to the manslaughter of his former partner, Jacqui Purton, a mother of four.
During Tuesday’s hearing in the Supreme Court in Hobart, prosecutor Heather Denton told the court that James Kenneth Austin failed to take reasonable precautions and exercise reasonable care while driving, which contributed to Ms. Purton’s death.
Ms. Purton, 37, was found dead at a property in Campania, northeast of Hobart, after a serious incident early on March 13, 2023. Emergency services responded to reports of a person seriously injured by a vehicle at a house on Native Corners Road. Despite efforts by first responders, Ms. Purton was pronounced dead at the scene.
Initially, Austin faced a murder charge, but in April 2023, he pleaded not guilty. That charge has now been withdrawn, and he has entered a guilty plea to manslaughter.
Relatives of Ms. Purton were present in court when the plea was entered. During the proceedings, her mother shouted, “hope my daughter haunts you, you scum,” as Austin was led away by police.
Justice Michael Brett remanded Austin in custody, and he is scheduled to reappear in court at the end of the month.
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