Paul Charlton is appealing his murder conviction for the 2007 death of singer Joanne Howe in Hughesdale, a suburb in Melbourne’s south-east. Howe was found strangled in her home while attempting to leave Charlton. Upon discovery, Charlton claimed he returned from walking his dog to find her body.
During his trial, Charlton’s defence argued that the jury was misled, suggesting they were not properly instructed on critical aspects of the case. His lawyer asserted that the jury failed to adequately consider evidence supporting the possibility that another individual may have been responsible for Howell’s death, including her estranged brother or acquaintances, or that it might have been a random attack.
Charlton has consistently maintained his innocence, asserting he did not kill Howe. His defence highlighted alternative theories regarding the perpetrator’s identity. Following the appeal hearing, Lisa Hennessy, Howe’s sister, expressed her frustration, stating, “He gets to come out of prison, lucky him he gets a day trip,” reflecting the emotional toll on the family.
Charlton is currently serving a 24-year prison sentence. The Court of Appeal will review the case, with a decision expected in the coming weeks. Hennessy hopes for a harsher penalty, stating, “I hope he gets another 10 years put on his sentence for putting our family through all this again.”