Sydney, Oct 24: An Australian woman who killed her four children was jailed for 40 years today, with the judge recommending she serve at least 30 years. In May, Kathleen Folbigg was found guilty by the new South Wales Supreme Court for the murders of her children Patrick, Sarah and Laura, all aged between eight and 19 months (RPT months). The killings took place between 1991 and 1999 in the towns of Newcastle and Singleton.

She was found guilty of manslaughter of her eldest child Caleb, who was just 19 days old when he died in Newcastle in 1989. She was also convicted of grievous bodily harm on one of her children.

Today Justice Graham Barr sentenced her to 40 years in jail, and recommended she only be considered for parole after 30 years.

Barr said that Folbigg's ability to cope had been impaired by a personality disorder caused by a troubled childhood.

"She was not by nature a cruel mother," he said. "She generally looked after her children well.
"She was not fully equipped to cope."

Family members broke down in tears as the verdict was announced. Folbigg showed little emotion throughout her sentencing. Her lawyers said outside the court that she maintained her innocence and would lodge an appeal.
Bureau Report