14 charges against notorious Dr Death

Three of the charges against Dr Jayant Patel are of manslaughter

14 charges against notorious Dr Death

Three of the charges against Dr Jayant Patel are of manslaughter

Indian-born 59-year old surgeon Dr Jayant Patel, nicknamed 'Dr Death', has been committed to stand trial on 14 charges, including three of manslaughter, in the Queensland Supreme Court.

A deputy magistrate yesterday ruled there was enough evidence to send the US citizen to trial for the manslaughter. Dr Patel has also been committed on 10 other charges, including causing grievous bodily harm, during his tenure as director of surgery at Bundaberg Base Hospital between 2003 and 2005.

The surgeon's lawyers consented to his standing trial on each charge.

heartless: Dr Jayant Patel's trial is expected to start early next year

Magistrate Brian Hine asked the surgeon, who was extradited from the US 10 months ago, whether he wanted to answer the charges or whether he wanted to enter a plea.

"No thank you, your honour," the surgeon said.

Dr Patel's barrister argued for a relaxation of his client's bail conditions as regards A$20,000 (Rs 7 lakh) bail surety and requirement to check in with police three times a week. Both pleas were denied.

The surgeon's wife Kishoree, who has been present in court during every hearing in the past, was conspicuous by her absence yesterday.

A patient spokeswoman said outside court yesterday it was a "good day for the patients of Bundaberg".

"After four years it feels pretty good. It's a major achievement."

Dr Patel escaped to the USA, but was extradited after an extended legal procedure.

The allegations attracted publicity in newspapers and on television when they were first made public in 2005.

The trial is likely to last for six weeks and could involve more than 150 witnesses. It is expected to be scheduled for early next year.

(With inputs from agencies)

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