She spent her career as a skilled meatworker. On the night of February 29, 2000, that expertise turned a domestic killing into one of the most notorious crime scenes in Australian history.
The Murder
On the night of February 29, 2000, Katherine Knight killed her partner, John Price, at his home in Aberdeen, New South Wales, stabbing him more than 30 times. What followed after his death -- extensive mutilation of his body -- was described by the sentencing judge as carried out with considerable skill, consistent with Knight''s professional background as a meatworker. We are not detailing the specific acts further; they are documented at length elsewhere for readers who want that level of detail.
Sentencing
Justice Barry O''Keefe of the New South Wales Supreme Court described the crime in his sentencing remarks as showing no mercy toward the victim, and found Knight posed an ongoing danger of serious violence if ever released. He handed down the maximum penalty available under the law.
A Historic Sentence
Katherine Knight became the first woman in Australian history sentenced to life in prison without the possibility of parole -- a sentence that remains in effect, with her file marked as never to be released. International media at the time drew comparisons to fictional serial killer Hannibal Lecter given the nature of the crime.
The Community''s Reaction
Residents of Aberdeen who knew both Knight and Price described the crime as shocking given how ordinary the couple''s relationship had appeared from the outside. Knight was known locally as a highly skilled and hardworking meat processing employee.
Later Attention
In 2016, a Hollywood production studio acquired rights to develop a film based on Knight''s case, drawing renewed public attention to one of the most extreme crimes in the country''s criminal history.
FAQ
Is Katherine Knight the only Australian woman with this sentence?
Yes. She remains the only woman in Australian history sentenced to life in prison without parole.
Will Katherine Knight ever be released?
No. Her file is formally marked as never to be released.
What was Katherine Knight''s occupation?
She worked as a meatworker, a professional skill the sentencing judge noted was evident in how the crime was carried out.