Philip Polkinghorne has been found not guilty of murdering his wife Pauline Hanna in 2021.
Video / NZ Herald
WARNING: DISTRESSING CONTENT
Philip Polkinghorne has spoken outside court after receiving a not-guilty verdict for the murder and manslaughter of his wife.
For eight weeks jurors listened intently to evidence from the Crown who alleged Polkinghorne murdered his 63-year-old wife Pauline Hanna at their home in Remuera andarguments from the defence who claim she took her own life.
Jurors returned their verdict acquitting Polkinghorne this afternoon following 10 hours of deliberations, which stretched over two days.
Outside court, Polkinghorne told media: “Today’s outcome is a huge turning point in our lives.
He thanked the police and prosecution for their dedication and hard work.
“We need to accept the decision and move on,” he said.
A close friend of Pauline, Pheasant Riordan, told media; “We think it’s a crap decision.”
“She was an amazing person. She didn’t deserve this end. We just loved her very much,” she said.
Close friend of Pauline Hanna, Pheasant Riordan breaks down after Philip Polkinghorne was found not guilty of murdering his wife. He was also found not guilty of manslaughter. Photo / Dean Purcell
During the trial, prosecutors suggested Polkinghorne lashed out at Hanna while high on methamphetamine, possibly during an argument over the exorbitant amount he was spending on sex workers or a secret “double life” with high–profile Sydney escort Madison Ashton.
Ashton refused to give evidence at the Polkinghorne trial.
