Children testify in Queensland murder trial regarding family safety concerns

The adult children of Frances Crawford have given testimony at the murder trial of their father, Robert John Crawford, in Brisbane. Robert Crawford, a 49-year-old former RAAF pilot, has pleaded not guilty to murdering his 49-year-old wife in July 2024 at their rural property in Upper Lockyer.

During the proceedings, the couple's son, Jake Crawford, told the jury that none of the children wanted their mother to associate with their father due to concerns for her safety. He stated that the children did not want her in an environment with him and that he was personally scared for her safety.

Prosecutors allege that Mr Crawford caused his wife's death before attempting to make the incident appear as a fatal ride-on mower accident at their Lockyer Valley home. Conversely, the defence team has rejected the allegation that Ms Crawford was murdered.

The jury previously heard evidence concerning ongoing relationship difficulties between the couple, stemming from multiple instances of infidelity by Mr Crawford over several years. According to court evidence, Mr Crawford was asked to leave the family home in July 2023 following another revelation of infidelity, after which Ms Crawford had the locks changed.

Court testimony also indicated that Mr Crawford forcefully re-entered the property in the days following the lockout, leading to a verbal altercation that required police attendance. Two of the couple's children in their twenties, Jessie Crawford and Jake Crawford, resided at the residence at the time and provided evidence regarding that incident.