NEGOTIATIONS continue in the case of murder-accused Natasha Darcy, who allegedly staged the suicide of her partner Walcha grazier Mathew Dunbar.
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Darcy allegedly fed the victim a cocktail of sedatives she blended in a Nutribullet before putting a plastic bag over his head and gassing him with helium.
Police claim Darcy Googled 'the science of getting away with murder', '99 undetectable poisons' and 'helium-filled exit bag' in the lead up to the discover of Dunbar's body on August 2, 2017.
The 42-year-old woman appeared wearing prison greens in Tamworth Local Court on Wednesday via video link.
A plea deal was on the table for Darcy on the last occasion and negotiations are continuing, DPP solicitor Max Dixon told the court.
"There's ongoing discussion in this matter as to the nature of it being committed, there's a joint application for an adjournment to July 10 which I note is longer than you would like, but it's needed given the serious nature of the charges," Mr Dixon said.
Darcy faces one charge of murder and it's expected the matter will be committed for trial dependent on her plea on the next occasion.
There's a joint application for an adjournment to July 10 which I note is longer than you would like, but it's needed given the serious nature of the charges ...
- Max Dixon
Mr Dunbar's death was reported to police by Darcy at about 2am on August 2, 2017, after she claims she was woken by the fire alarm.
Traces of the sedative consumed by Mr Dunbar, including a ram sedative, were allegedly found in an unwashed cup.
Police allege Darcy bought the ram tranquiliser from a veterinarian in Armidale using a fake name, phone number and address.
DPP solicitor Max Dixon told Tamworth Local Court he hoped to have the charges resolved by the next date.
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The adjournment was granted by Magistrate Julie Soars.
"There are ongoing discussions between the parties re the charges, it will be adjourned until July for possible committal, otherwise it's to proceed in the ordinary course with Ms Darcy to appear via audio visual link," she said.
"Ms Darcy, you heard all that?"
"Yes, your honour," Darcy replied.
The matter is adjourned for further discussion until July. Bail was not applied for and was refused.
Madeline Link
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
Madeline Link is a journalist at the Newcastle Herald, with a focus on Lake Macquarie City Council. To keep up with my stories, follow my Twitter @madeline_link, for tips email madeline.link@newcastleherald.com.au.
