Philip Polkinghorne is on trial for allegedly murdering his wife, Pauline Hanna, in their home in Remuera in April 2021. He denies the charges and claims their relationship was happy, despite his wife’s struggles with mental health.
During the trial, forensic evidence was presented, showing that a blood stain on a bedsheet belonged to Polkinghorne, not Hanna. The prosecution argues that Polkinghorne was unhappy, using meth, and leading a secret life, which may have led to violence against Hanna. They believe he staged her death to look like a suicide.
Forensic scientist Fiona Matheson testified this week. She examined the scene where Hanna was found and was asked about the DNA evidence. She confirmed that the blood on the bedsheet was Polkinghorne’s. Matheson also looked for other evidence to determine if Hanna had been drugged, but further tests were not conducted based on the pathologist’s advice.
The trial continues, with more forensic evidence being reviewed.
