Mark Sheridan Waden, a former Zumba instructor from Brisbane, is on trial for the alleged murder of his girlfriend, former American beauty queen Priscilla Brooten. The trial, which began Monday in the Brisbane Supreme Court, is expected to last 10 days. Waden has pleaded not guilty.
Disappearance and Allegations
Ms Brooten vanished in July 2018 from the Bracken Ridge home she shared with Waden. Her body has never been located. Crown prosecutor Andrew Walklate argued that Waden killed her after she discovered messages between him and other women. He described a series of actions and deceptions by Waden following her disappearance.
Trench Digging Evidence
The day after Ms Brooten went missing, Waden allegedly dug a large trench in his front yard, claiming it was to comply with council requests. He reportedly used Airtasker to find someone to dig a 4-metre trench urgently. About a year later, in May 2019, he allegedly dug up the trench and dumped approximately 800 kilograms of soil at a Nudgee waste facility. His vehicle was captured on camera leaving the dump with a wheelie bin on a trailer.
Identity Theft and Lies
Prosecutors claim Waden assumed the identity of Ms Brooten's ex-partner, Steve Thompson, to contact the US consulate. He allegedly told the consulate that Ms Brooten had fled to the US and was being held against her will. He also lied to friends, saying she fled from immigration police. Furthermore, Waden allegedly gave his new girlfriend Ms Brooten's belongings, including clothes, makeup, and a mobile phone.
Defence Arguments
Defence barrister James Godbolt urged the jury to focus on facts rather than inferences. He argued the case is based on conjecture and speculation, lacking hard facts. While admitting Waden told lies, Godbolt contended this does not indicate guilt. He noted that no physical evidence suggests Ms Brooten was buried in the trench. Godbolt suggested Ms Brooten could still be alive, possibly having left the country under another name, living under the radar, or having committed suicide.
The trial continues on Tuesday.
