A controversial artwork allegedly crafted by Australia’s infamous serial killer, John Bunting, has recently been listed for sale on eBay, with an asking price of $5,000. This item, described as handmade by Bunting while incarcerated at Yatala Prison, features a disturbing skull design on a Salvation Army Christmas card and includes his signature on the reverse side.
Bunting, infamously known as the ringleader of the ‘Bodies in Barrels’ murders, was convicted in 2003 of 11 gruesome killings that shocked South Australia. His notoriety and the nature of his crimes make the sale of his artwork particularly contentious. The eBay listing remained active for several days before being reported by the South Australian Department for Correctional Services, which ultimately led to its removal. This action was taken in consideration of the victims and their families, reflecting the sensitivity surrounding such items associated with heinous crimes.
A spokesperson from the Department for Correctional Services indicated that they would investigate to confirm the artwork’s origin and whether it was genuinely created by Bunting within the prison environment. They affirmed that consequences would follow should any misconduct be discovered.
Currently, Bunting is serving a life sentence under strict security measures. South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas emphasised that profiting from criminal activity is illegal. He pointed out that if the work is found to be legitimate, it raises concerns about individuals looking to exploit the notoriety of such crimes for financial gain, which he condemned as a reflection of poor character.
The sale and subsequent removal of this artwork from eBay has sparked debates on ethics and morality, particularly regarding how society interacts with items connected to criminals and their crimes.