December 11th 2024.
After a lengthy three-week trial, Emil "Bill" Petrov, 60, has been found guilty of the murder of his estranged wife, Cindy Crossthwaite, more than 17 years ago. The prosecution alleged that Petrov shot and killed Crossthwaite in her Melton South home on June 20, 2007, amid a bitter court battle between the two.
Crossthwaite's body was discovered by her father under a blanket in the lounge room, with blood splatters covering the windows. The jury was presented with evidence that she had been choked and shot at close range, only 15 centimetres away from her head. Prosecutor Mark Gibson argued that Petrov was responsible for firing the fatal shot, but the possibility of him arranging for someone else to carry out the murder was also open to the jury.
According to Gibson, Petrov and Crossthwaite had been married for almost a decade before their separation in 2005. As they were trying to divide their assets in Family Court hearings in May 2007, Petrov was fighting to exclude several properties owned by his parents. The case was adjourned to July of that year, and Gibson argued that Petrov was well aware of the potential negative impact on his financial interests when the proceedings resumed.
The prosecution claimed that the ongoing legal battle was a significant factor in Petrov's motive to commit murder. However, Petrov maintained his innocence and denied any involvement in Crossthwaite's death. His lawyers also disputed the extent of the couple's property battle. They also challenged the testimony of witness Brian O'Shea, who claimed Petrov had approached him to buy a gun in April or May 2007. O'Shea admitted to only giving evidence to avoid facing a murder charge.
After just over a week of deliberations, the jury returned their guilty verdict against Petrov this afternoon. When asked for their verdict on the murder charge, the forewoman replied with a simple "guilty." Petrov looked visibly stressed and wiped his face as the verdict was announced, while his girlfriend looked on.
Petrov had previously been out on bail but will now be taken into prison to await a pre-sentence hearing scheduled for March 21. As the verdict was delivered, Crossthwaite's family hugged each other and wiped away tears. It has been a long and emotional journey for them, but they can finally find some closure knowing that justice has been served.
For anyone in need of support, the National Sexual Assault, Domestic Family Violence Counselling Service is available at 1800RESPECT. Let us all remember to reach out and support those who have been affected by violence and tragedy in our communities.
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