Australian comedian Dave Hughes has publicly questioned the decision to prescribe Ozempic, a weight loss drug, to Erin Patterson, a woman convicted of murdering three relatives by poisoning them with death cap mushrooms. Patterson, 51, is currently serving her sentence at the Dame Phyllis Frost Centre in Melbourne.
Reports emerged that Patterson, who has described herself as a 'binge eater,' was approved for Ozempic injections, reportedly due to her isolation and inability to exercise in prison. A prison source expressed frustration, stating, "Staff safety is a huge concern, yet management appear more concerned about the weight of a convicted killer."
Hughes joined a chorus of public disapproval, making light of the situation. "She's in solitary confinement. She's not trying to keep away from the buffet on a cruise," he remarked. He suggested Patterson could ask for less food or, humorously, request the infamous beef Wellington again, implying it would lead to rapid weight loss.
The cost of Ozempic, while subsidized for eligible patients with type 2 diabetes to around $25 per month, can reach up to $134 monthly. Unsubsidized alternatives like Mounjaro can cost significantly more.
The Department of Justice and Community Safety stated that inmates' access to such medications is guided by medical advice, with prescriptions issued only when there is a clear medical necessity, such as preventing serious conditions like type 2 diabetes.
During her 11-week trial, Patterson spoke about her lifelong struggles with binge eating and body image. These details emerged as she explained consuming cake after the fatal meal before later vomiting.
Patterson is currently appealing her conviction, citing grounds that include a claimed 'substantial miscarriage of justice' during her trial. She also argues that she was forced to testify because the judge excluded photographs of mushrooms. Separately, the Director of Public Prosecutions has appealed the sentence length, deeming it 'manifestly inadequate' and seeking a life sentence without parole.
Patterson's case is not the first instance of a convicted murderer receiving Ozempic in prison. Alicia Schiller, serving time for a drug-fueled murder in 2014, has also been prescribed Ozempic by her prison doctor after gaining weight. Schiller reportedly had turned her cell into a 'candy shop,' consuming large amounts of sweets and snacks. The victim's mother criticized this, calling it "absolutely ridiculous" and a waste of taxpayer money.
Victoria's Minister Nick Staikos has previously defended the use of weight loss injections for inmates, framing it as a preventative health measure. He stated that such decisions are made by clinicians and that preventing serious illness can save taxpayer money in the long run. Justices Stephen McLeish, Lesley Taylor, and Peter Kidd are expected to deliver their decision on Patterson's appeal and the prosecution's sentence appeal at a later date.