The Latest Breaking News from James Scott Church

Answers sought for family after daughter vanished

An inquest will investigate the disappearance and suspected death of a woman after her accused killer ended his life on the eve of his verdict being delivered.

AAP · Jun 10, 2025

Leisl Smith's mother pleads for law change allowing dead man's murder trial verdict to be released

The mother of Central Coast woman Leisl Smith who vanished in 2012 calls for laws to be amended to allow a verdict for the man who stood trial for her murder — but died — to be released.

ABC News · Apr 30, 2023

No verdict after unexpected death in Leisl Smith murder trial

The unexpected death of James Scott Church a day before verdict means a NSW judge cannot hand down her decision on the alleged murder of Leisl Smith in 2012.

Newcastle Herald · Jul 8, 2022

Man accused of vanished woman's murder

A NSW Central Coast man has denied murdering his former girlfriend who disappeared in 2012 and whose body has never been found

AAP · Feb 8, 2022

Leisl Smith disappearance: Judge has 'grave concerns' over murder investigation

A NSW Supreme Court judge says she has "grave concerns" about the investigation into the alleged murder of Leisl Smith, who disappeared without a trace after leaving her home at Wallarah, on the Central Coast, in August 2012.

Newcastle Herald · Jan 24, 2022