Mother accused of drugging son's smoothie pleads not guilty

Maree Mavis Crabtree, 59, has pleaded not guilty to the murder of her 26-year-old son, Jonathan, in July 2017. The trial at Brisbane Supreme Court heard allegations that Crabtree crushed prescription painkillers, including oxycodone, into a fruit smoothie she prepared for her son. This potent mixture allegedly caused his death. Prosecutors claim this was not the first attempt on Jonathan's life, citing a prior incident where she allegedly gave him a drink containing oxycodone.

Jonathan's sister, Tara Crabtree, is expected to testify that she assisted her mother by keeping watch while the fatal smoothie was prepared. She will reportedly describe hearing Jonathan struggle after consuming the drink. The defense is challenging Tara's testimony, highlighting her admission of prior lies to police and suggesting Jonathan, a self-described violent, suicidal drug addict, might have taken the drugs himself. Investigators found oxycodone bottles and a blender that tested positive for drugs at the family home.

Crabtree also faces charges for attempting to fraudulently claim more than £50,000 from her son's superannuation fund after his death. The prosecution alleges Crabtree stated Jonathan's involvement in a robbery had put the family's finances in jeopardy, providing a motive for the alleged killing. The trial, expected to last five weeks, will hear from approximately 60 witnesses.