September 6th 2024.
The family of Synamin Bell is seeking justice after her accused killer was sentenced to only 11 years in prison. This decision was met with outrage and disappointment by her loved ones, who feel that it is a slap in the face to Synamin, her children, and her mother. Shenta Bell, Synamin's sister, expressed her frustration to the cameras outside of the Mount Gambier Courthouse, stating that her sister's life seems to hold no value in the eyes of the justice system.
The emotional courtroom scene was too much for some members of the Bell family, who stormed out during the sentencing. They were vocal about their disapproval of the lenient sentence, with friend Zoe Widdison stating that it is unacceptable for a man to take drugs and then murder a woman and only receive a light punishment. This sentiment is shared by many, as Synamin was brutally beaten to death in her own home in Millicent in March of 2022.
The accused, Cody Edwards, was arrested on his front lawn while under the influence of drugs. He was charged with murder, but during the trial, he pleaded guilty to the lesser charge of manslaughter. He claimed that he was in a drug-induced psychosis and felt threatened, blaming the little-known drug DOI for his actions. Despite knowing the effects of this potent drug, he chose to take it again and ultimately caused the death of Synamin.
The judge acknowledged that Edwards' decision to take drugs again, despite previous negative experiences, makes him more responsible for his actions. However, this does not bring comfort to the Bell family, who are now calling for a change in the law. They want self-induced intoxication to no longer be a valid defence in cases like this. Widdison believes that this would bring a bit more justice and recognition to the fact that Edwards willingly took the drugs and ultimately took a life.
Shenta echoed this sentiment, reminding everyone that Edwards not only took drugs, but he also took away the life of a beloved mother, daughter, and sister. The South Australian Attorney-General, Kyam Maher, agrees that the law needs to be reevaluated to meet community expectations. He plans to meet with the Bell family in the coming days to discuss further changes. The family hopes that this tragedy will lead to a positive change in the justice system, ensuring that no other family has to go through what they are experiencing.
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