Still Missing Australia - Samantha Murphy, 51, last seen leaving her property to go for a run in the Canadian State Forest, Ballarat, 4 Feb 2024 *Arrest* #13

[BreakingNews]

Interesting that the hearing was brought forward from the originally advised early Feb directions hearing. Maybe the court had an unexpected slot become available and moved the case up.

I wonder what happened?

 

[Melt71]

Published 4 days ago following Stephenson's appearance in court.

Samantha Murphy's accused killer appears in court

Patrick Orren Stephenson, 23, appeared in court wearing a white shirt and black jacket for a pre-trial hearing related to the murder charge of Ballarat mother Samantha Murphy.

7news.com.au

"... accused killer has been seen in public for the first time in over a year, while facing court today..." and "....details of the case were discussed ahead of his trial...."

The fact that the news clip doesn't mention any of the details discussed indicates a suppression order against publication is likely still in place.