Witness: William Tyrrell – Episode 9: Something Wicked

Host: Dan Box
Producer: Nina Young
Release Date: December 1, 2024
Platform: news.com.au

Introduction

In the ninth episode of Witness: William Tyrrell, host Dan Box delves deep into the perplexing case of three-year-old William Tyrrell, who vanished from his home in Kendall, New South Wales, on September 12, 2014. A decade later, William remains missing, and suspicions continue to swirl around several individuals, with the foster mother and law enforcement under intense scrutiny. This episode examines the intricate web of investigations, allegations of police misconduct, and the unwavering quest for answers by William’s family.

Key Figures and Suspects

Frank Abbott: A Central Figure

Frank Abbott emerges as a primary suspect in William's disappearance. Described by neighbors as a reclusive hoarder with a troubling past, Frank has a history of criminal activities, including child sexual abuse. His proximity to William's last known location and alleged suspicious behavior have made him a focal point of the investigation.

• Gail Veronica (William's foster mother) shares her early impressions of Frank:

  "When I really got to know Frank was in that nine months... He doesn't look after himself. He doesn't even have a bath. But you can have an intelligent conversation with him."
  (00:03)

Police Conduct and Gary Jubilin’s Controversial Role

Gary Jubilin, the lead detective on the Tyrrell case, has been a contentious figure. Removed from the investigation amid allegations of misconduct, his ousting has cast a shadow over the ongoing search for William.

• Dan Box details Jubilin’s removal:

  "The police believe his foster mother knows something. She denies it. Only one of them can be telling the truth."
  (00:48)

Investigation and Inquest Issues

Simultaneous Processes Causing Confusion

A significant issue highlighted is the overlapping of the police investigation with the inquest into William’s disappearance. Typically, an inquest follows the exhaustion of police leads, but in this case, both are proceeding concurrently, leading to potential conflicts and delays.

• Dan Box reflects on the confusion:

  "When every moment spent looking at the wrong person is a moment not spent looking for the right person."
  (05:53)

Inquest Dynamics and Frank’s Involvement

Frank Abbott's participation in the inquest exacerbates the complications. Being able to access incriminating evidence while still under investigation raises questions about the integrity and process of the inquest.

• Nina Young explains:

  "Frank is able to take part... He's listening to what people are saying about him and he's even able to question the witnesses."
  (24:58)

Notable Interactions and Evidence

Phone Conversations: Frank and Pastor Martin

The podcast features transcripts of phone calls between Frank Abbott and Pastor Martin Parish, revealing Frank’s awareness of the inquest’s proceedings and his access to critical evidence.

• Frank Abbott discusses evidence:

  "I didn't do anything wrong... This doesn't involve me in any way."
  (20:37)

Witness Statements and Contradictions

Discrepancies emerge between witness statements and official accounts, particularly concerning Frank’s alibi and involvement during the time William went missing.

• Gail Veronica expresses doubt:

  "I don't think he was involved... He could hardly friggin walk."
  (06:08)

Family’s Struggle and Distrust in Authorities

William’s foster mother, Gail Veronica, vocalizes her frustration and loss of trust in the police force. She criticizes the handling of the investigation and the apparent shift in focus away from Frank Abbott.

• Gail Veronica on police handling:

  "It's outrageous... Nobody within that police organization is fighting for William."
  (41:10)

Police Misconduct and Its Impact

The episode also touches upon broader issues within the New South Wales Police Force, including cases of misconduct and the suppression of information, which have further eroded public trust.

• Nina Young reports on senior police charges:

  "Pete, a senior member of the state's police executive, has been charged with high-range drink driving..."
  (44:29)

Ongoing Investigation and Future Prospects

As the inquest continues without conclusive findings, the investigation faces significant hurdles, including changes in police leadership and the potential sidelining of key suspects.

• Dan Box summarizes the current state:

  "The inquest doesn’t come to an end as expected. Instead, it's adjourned again for months."
  (39:39)

Conclusion

Episode 9 of Witness: William Tyrrell paints a grim picture of a case mired in suspicion, police misconduct, and bureaucratic delays. With no closure in sight for William’s family, the community remains desperate for answers. The intertwining of personal testimonies, official proceedings, and the relentless pursuit of truth underscores the persistent agony surrounding William’s disappearance.

Key Quotes

• Gail Veronica:

  "I really think Frank was a pervert."
  (00:03)

• Dan Box:

  "If William matters, then it matters that we look at the investigation that so far hasn't found him and keep asking why and what went right and what went wrong."
  (08:38)

• Frank Abbott:

  "I'll tell you about it when you come down."
  (24:47)

• Martin Parish:

  "Nobody, nobody within that police organization is fighting for William."
  (41:10)

This episode underscores the complexities and frustrations that families endure in unresolved cases, spotlighting systemic issues within investigative processes and the profound human impact of prolonged uncertainty.