Small Town Murder Podcast Summary
Episode: Lady Leatherface - Aberdeen, New South Wales, Australia
Hosts: James Pietragallo & Jimmie Whisman
Release Date: August 8, 2025
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Small Town Murder, hosts James Pietragallo and Jimmie Whisman delve into the dark and twisted case of Catherine Mary Knight, infamously known as Lady Leatherface, who committed a gruesome murder in the small Australian town of Aberdeen, New South Wales. Balancing in-depth research with their signature comedic flair, the hosts guide listeners through the harrowing events that shook the tight-knit community.
Background of Aberdeen, New South Wales
Aberdeen, located in the Upper Hunter Shire of eastern Australia, is a modest town with a population of just over 2,000. Historically a hub for mining and meat processing, Aberdeen was home to the Aberdeen Meatworks, one of the town's largest employers until its closure in 1999. The town is also known for its Scottish heritage, celebrated annually through the Aberdeen Highland Games.
Notable Quote:
James (00:26): "It's a lot we got for you today. It's a crazy episode."
Catherine Mary Knight: Early Life and Personal Struggles
Catherine's tumultuous life began with a troubled family dynamic. Born to Barbara and Jack Ruffin, Catherine endured severe abuse from her stepfather, Ken Knight, who was both alcoholic and violent. This abusive environment profoundly affected Catherine, leading to behavioral issues during her school years, including bullying and violent outbursts.
Notable Quote:
Jimmy (18:36): "Which is just what a six-year-old wants to hear."
Descent into Violence
Catherine's violent tendencies escalated over the years. After multiple abusive relationships and a series of personal conflicts, her aggression culminated in the brutal murder of her husband, John Charles Thomas Price, in February 2000. Catherine meticulously planned and executed the murder, demonstrating a chilling level of precision and lack of remorse.
Notable Quote:
James (13:00): "Is somebody skinning people around here?"
The Murder Scene
On the night of February 29, 2000, Catherine entered Pricey's home under the guise of reconciliation. After a brief encounter, she attacked him with a kitchen knife, stabbing him multiple times. In a horrifying display of violence, she removed his skin in one complete piece, resembling the process of skinning an orange. She then proceeded to cook parts of his body, intending to serve them as meals to her children.
Notable Quote:
James (48:38): "She skinned a man like a fucking orange. One piece."
Investigation and Arrest
The following morning, Pricey failed to show up for work, prompting his colleagues to alert the authorities. Upon inspecting his home, police discovered the gruesome aftermath of Catherine's actions, including blood spatter, the macabre display of his skin, and cooked remains of his body. Catherine was found unconscious in the house due to an overdose of prescription medications, likely taken to avoid detection.
Notable Quote:
James (55:39): "So she hung his skin on a meat hook."
Trial and Sentencing
During the trial, Catherine maintained a facade of distress, citing her history of abuse as justification for her actions. However, psychiatric evaluations concluded that while she exhibited a personality disorder, she was mentally competent and fully aware of her crimes. The Supreme Court judge condemned her actions as "an appalling crime, almost beyond contemplation in a civilized society," sentencing her to life imprisonment without the possibility of parole—the first woman in Australian history to receive such a sentence.
Notable Quote:
Judge (64:30): "To sentence any person to life imprisonment is a big thing. To sentence a woman to life imprisonment for me was an even bigger thing."
Aftermath and Legacy
Catherine Mary Knight's case left an indelible mark on Aberdeen, attracting numerous tourists fascinated by the horrific events. The house where the murder took place remains a point of interest, occasionally listed for sale and serving as a grim reminder of the tragedy. Catherine continues to serve her life sentence, reportedly maintaining a stoic demeanor and presenting herself as having found faith, though skepticism remains among those familiar with her history.
Notable Quote:
James (65:14): "That's the name of this fucking episode right there. Lady Leatherface. That is good."
Conclusion
Lady Leatherface offers a chilling exploration of Catherine Mary Knight's life, her descent into violence, and the profound impact her actions had on the small town of Aberdeen. Through detailed narration and insightful commentary, James and Jimmy provide listeners with a comprehensive understanding of one of Australia's most disturbing murder cases.
Notable Highlights:
- Psychological Profile: Analysis of Catherine's personality disorder and lack of remorse.
- Community Impact: The effect of the murder on Aberdeen's residents and its transformation into a site of morbid curiosity.
- Legal Proceedings: The groundbreaking sentencing and its significance in Australian legal history.
Quotes with Timestamps:
- James (00:26): "It's a lot we got for you today. It's a crazy episode."
- Jimmy (18:36): "Which is just what a six-year-old wants to hear."
- James (13:00): "Is somebody skinning people around here?"
- James (48:38): "She skinned a man like a fucking orange. One piece."
- James (55:39): "So she hung his skin on a meat hook."
- Judge (64:30): "To sentence any person to life imprisonment is a big thing. To sentence a woman to life imprisonment for me was an even bigger thing."
- James (65:14): "That's the name of this fucking episode right there. Lady Leatherface. That is good."
This episode is a poignant reminder of how personal trauma and societal pressures can intertwine, leading to unimaginable acts of violence. Small Town Murder continues to shed light on such cases, offering listeners both detailed narratives and thoughtful analysis.