The Narcissist in Life

Warning: This article covers themes of the Philip Polkinghorne criminal case

OPINION

Yesterday, after the Polkinghorne case verdict, Philip Polkinghorne told reporters:

"Now we can grieve and let Pauline rest in peace. That is the best gift we can possibly give her."

And today his defence lawyer Elizabeth Hall said the case showed the justice system was working as intended.

Jurors could not land the criminal burden of proof i.e. ‘beyond reasonable doubt’ - so retired eye surgeon Polkinghorne was acquitted.

Jurors had asked the judge for guidance yesterday when a number of them, while disbelieving Ms Hanna had killed herself, also couldn’t be 100% sure of how she died. Their statement to the judge included the line:

“Most of the people on the jury do not think there is enough evidence to support Pauline committing suicide.”

The judge directed them accordingly:

"At the end of the day, it's not sufficient for you to think that Dr Polkinghorne is probably guilty, or even very likely guilty. You've got to be sure, beyond reasonable doubt, that the Crown has proved that he …