Maureen Anne Enright accused of murdering son, to require palliative care

The health of an elderly Brisbane woman charged with the historic murder of her autistic son is quickly deteriorating with a “very slim” chance of improving, a court has heard.

Maureen Enright, 78.

An elderly Brisbane woman accused of murdering her young son more than 50 years ago is said to be in extremely poor health and may require palliative care before her charge is dealt with in court.

Maureen Anne Enright, 78, was arrested in October, 2020 and charged with the murder of her son Peter John Enright, who was autistic.

It was alleged the boy was murdered at a residential property in Inala on a date between September 9, 1968 and February 28, 1969 when he was either three or four years old.

The grandmother was released on bail after spending about a month in prison, with a Supreme Court judge at the time describing the case against her as almost “non-existent”.

Enright’s physical and mental health were said to be poor due to her month-long detainment as well as “a number” of medical conditions.

In January this year, her then-lawyer Anne-Maree Russo asked Justice Frances Williams to vary her bail conditions such that she would not have to report to police, as her poor health made compliance with requirements more difficult than necessary.

Forensic officers search a house in Inala as part of their investigation into Maureen Enright.

Ms Williams did not remove the reporting condition but said Enright could apply to report by phone.

The matter was mentioned in another Brisbane court on Monday, November 7, where her lawyer once again cited her “very poor health”.

The court heard Enright’s health had deteriorated to a point where she was recommended palliative care and there was a “very slim prospect that her health will improve” enough for her to undergo a contested committal hearing.

Prosecutor Sergeant David Barnes said the request was not opposed.

The matter was adjourned for mention on February 6, 2023 so Enright’s lawyer could continue discussions with the prosecution and “track the status” of his client’s health.

It is understood many of the witnesses, who will testify in relation to the alleged murder next year, are related to Enright and her appearance in court will be beneficial due to “family dynamics”.