In 1993, a 16-year-old girl discovered a passion that would dramatically shape her life when she read The Frankston Serial Killer by Vikki Petraitis. This book sparked a profound interest in true crime literature, leading her to accumulate an extensive library of around 600 to 700 true crime books. Her fascination didn’t stop there; she also became engrossed in the Easey Street murders from 1977, which further fueled her obsession. Determined to witness justice firsthand, she became a frequent attendee at the Erin Patterson murder trial, the first trial of this nature she had ever participated in, stating that while some elements aligned with her true crime knowledge, others were a stark contrast to her expectations.
Her experience in the courtroom was characterized by a blend of admiration for the legal professionals at work and a powerful emotional connection to the unfolding drama. As she observed defense lawyers Colin Mandy and Bill Doogue, she felt captivated by their dynamic interactions, noting how her lifelong interest in crime incidents somehow prepared her for the complexities of the trial. Her childhood experiences, particularly a near-miss with danger at the age of 10, had instilled in her a deep curiosity about criminal psychology, compelling her to seek understanding of criminal behaviors that differentiate them from common societal norms.
Erin Patterson’s trial drew a diverse group of spectators, including local community members like Kelly Phelan. Phelan, who shares a name with the accused but is not related, found herself enchanted by the case after hearing about it on the radio. This intrigue transformed family dinners into discussions about the trial, sparking interest even among her children. Initially hesitant, Phelan ventured to the courthouse alone, where she experienced a mix of nerves and excitement, quickly forming friendships with fellow attendees, whom she affectionately dubbed the "three mushkateers." Together, they faced the trial’s emotional weight, finding humor in a grim scenario while also grappling with its inherent seriousness.
As the trial progressed over 10 weeks—far longer than her initial plan of five or six—Phelan struggled to balance family responsibilities at home with her growing obsession with the courtroom drama. Her husband, Brett, stepped in to help with their dairy farm, providing support as she chased her passion. Despite mornings that began at 4:30 AM and intertwined with school runs and farm duties, Phelan remained dedicated to attending the trial, often returning home to tackle chores while supper preparations fell by the wayside.
The courtroom atmosphere was far removed from the dramatized depictions seen in shows like Law and Order, leaving Phelan grappling with the reality of legal proceedings. This experience led her to question her previous perceptions of the judicial system, and she found herself deeply invested in understanding the case intricately. Witnessing the skill and strategies of the defense team, especially barrister Colin Mandy, was a standout moment for her; it solidified her commitment to the trial and further entrenched her sense of involvement in the case.
By the trial’s conclusion, Phelan had formed lasting friendships and created a personal memento of her experience—a tattoo of a tiny red mushroom, serving as a lasting reminder of the weeks spent deeply entwined in the courtroom narrative. Although her involvement left her with logistical challenges, such as managing household tasks, she regarded the trial’s journey as an invaluable experience. As she prepared to return to her daily life, the shared excitement, emotional connections, and unique insights gained from the trial remained etched in her memory, illustrating the powerful impact such a deeply engaging event can have on individuals and communities alike.
