A woman involved in a stabbing incident claims to have suffered from “dissociative amnesia” due to excessive drinking, stating that she was unaware of her actions. Rebecca Mossman Riley is on trial at Gosford District Court, facing charges of wounding with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, along with a common assault charge. While the details of the incident are not disputed, the trial focuses on whether she comprehended the wrongfulness of her actions at the time of the attack.
Prosecutor Liam Shaw acknowledged that the Crown accepts Mossman Riley was mentally impaired during the attack, although the extent of this impairment will be assessed in court. Defence barrister Alissa Moen emphasised that the trial will examine how much alcohol Mossman Riley consumed and its influence on her behaviour, alongside expert testimonies regarding the role of alcohol in her actions.
On the night of January 7, 2023, it is alleged that Mossman Riley confronted her ex-boyfriend and his new girlfriend at Wyong Leagues Club, leading to an argument that resulted in their removal from the venue. The situation escalated in the car park, where she reportedly stabbed her ex-partner three times in the back and his girlfriend once in the arm. Following the incident, she fled the scene as bystanders attempted to assist the injured individuals, who were subsequently transported to John Hunter Hospital.
Mossman Riley was arrested shortly after midnight at a nearby unit. As part of her defence, psychiatrist Dr Olav Nielssen is expected to provide insights into her mental health and how it may have distorted her perception and reactions during the altercation.
The trial is ongoing, and a ruling from Judge David Wilson is anticipated regarding whether Mossman Riley intentionally meant to harm her victims.