Patients donating to family of slain psychologist
Written by admin on October 23, 2024
Patients of psychologist and mother Frances Crawford are donating to a fund to help the 49-year-old’s children rebuild their lives after she was allegedly murdered by her husband.
Ms Crawford was found dead at her Upper Lockyer property, west of Brisbane, about 3.40am on July 30 in what was initially reported as a ride-on lawnmower rollover incident.
Her husband Robert Crawford is alleged to have made the triple-0 call and was initially not considered a suspect.
But he was charged with murder and misconduct with a corpse by interfering after police investigations. He is expected to reappear in court on Friday.
Family friend Suzanne Duffy set up a fundraiser earlier this month in the days after charges were laid.
In a statement issued Thursday, Ms Duffy said patients of Ms Crawford’s had been donating.
“We have been approached by past and current clients of Frances, reaching out to send their emotional and financial support to her children … all asking what can they do to help raise funds for her grieving kids” Ms Day said.
“Donations are already helping the children with legal fees and professional support as they mourn the loss of their mother.”
“So far we have reached over $14,000 and all because of the community’s kindness and concern for Frances’ children.
“The community have been just amazing in showing their genuine care for and asking after the wellbeing of Frances’ children.”
As well as legal and support and costs, donations would go toward helping Ms Crawford’s children rebuild their lives.
“Whilst Frances’ children are currently receiving professional support to help them process this tragedy, they are relying on the generosity and compassion from the Australian community to continue that support in helping them rebuild their young adult lives without their mother,” Ms Day said.
Robert Crawford was arrested on October 10, follows a turn in the police investigation about the couple’s “personal circumstances” and “marriage”.
Police revealed Mr Crawford had connected with women in Italy, the US, Papua New Guinea, Guam, Afghanistan, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand and every state in Australia except South Australia and Tasmania through dating apps and in his personal and professional life.
The Royal Australian Air Force pilot did not appear in court when the matter was first called on October 11. He is in custody.
Police allege in court documents Mr Crawford interfered with his wife’s corpse by “moving a dead human body … without lawful jurisdiction or excuse.”
The matter is expected to be called again in the Ipswich Magistrates Court on Friday, where Mr Crawford’s appearance has already been excused.
He is yet to enter a plea.
