Eight-year-old Elizabeth Struhs endured a harrowing decline in health over a series of days after her diabetes medication was withheld by her family. Surrounded by her parents, brother, and 11 other members of a religious sect called “the Saints,” a vigil was held as her condition worsened. Tragically, Elizabeth passed away at her family’s residence located west of Brisbane three years ago. Today, 14 members of the church, including her parents, are due to be sentenced for manslaughter.
During a nine-week trial, these individuals claimed their actions stemmed from their religious convictions, which included a rejection of modern medicine, dismissing it as “witchcraft.” They shockingly expressed that Elizabeth’s death was viewed as an opportunity for divine resurrection, reflecting their belief in God’s power to perform miracles. The sect’s leader, Brendan Stevens, who represented the group during the trial, asserted that their beliefs entitled them to fully adhere to their interpretation of faith. Each defendant chose to represent themselves and refrained from entering pleas.
Among those convicted were Elizabeth’s father, Jason Richard Struhs, her mother, Kerrie Elizabeth Struhs, and her brother, Zachary Alan Struhs. Just months prior to Elizabeth’s untimely death, Jason had joined the Saints, calling his baptism the “greatest day” of his life. Witnesses at the trial suggested that the group operated like a “cult,” claiming they had brainwashed Jason and others into abandoning responsibilities to ensure Elizabeth’s wellbeing.
Prior to the events leading to her death, Jason had signed a diabetes management plan for Elizabeth after Kerrie had been incarcerated for neglecting her basic needs. However, just days after Kerrie was released from prison, Jason ceased administering Elizabeth’s rapid-acting insulin and eventually her slow-release doses as well, after noticing that the Saints approved of this decision. Tragically, Elizabeth was found unresponsive six days later, passing away on a mattress in the family living room.
In a poignant moment during the proceedings, Elizabeth’s sister, Jayde, confronted her family’s accomplices, condemning them for their role in Elizabeth’s death and predicting divine judgment upon them.
Justice Martin Burns has reserved sentencing decisions, following submissions from the crown prosecutor, who advocated for substantial prison terms: 15 years for the parents, 12 years for the primary instigator, Brendan Stevens, and a range of seven to eight years for the other defendants.
Readers seeking support in light of this case are encouraged to contact Lifeline at 13 11 14 or Kids Helpline at 1800 55 1800.