Fears over succesfull use of gay panic defence

[obi]

Father Paul Kelly, parish priest of Maryborough, said the defence used by Maryborough men Jason Pearce, 38, and Richard Meerdink, 40, during their murder trial (http://www.frasercoastchronicle.com.au/story/2009/10/12/murder-alibi-was-lie/) was “alarming” and could incite hate crimes.

More at the Fraser Coast Chronicle (http://www.frasercoastchronicle.com.au/story/2009/10/14/fears-gay-defence-could-lead-to-crimes-of-hate/)
One wonders how this can happen in this day an age :(

[FlyMyKitty]

Well said by the preist. Heeeere we go! I killed him because he came on to me...i couldn't just laugh it off and walk away i had to bash him to death with my mate. Has this 'Homosexual panic' deffense actually been used in the past??

[obi]

Yeah has in late 90's, laws were changed in the usa because of its use in Matthew Shepard case, banning its use. Pity we never followed and changed the laws here.

[FlyMyKitty]

That is really scary. Be careful who you come on to. So i could be beaten to death for flirting with someone...Australia has always been a bit slow. I guess these are the things we need to fight for.