Prosecutor David Meredith has said that Jayant Patel (Doctor Death) will face committal hearing beginning Feb 9 to 27, 2009. The India born Jayant Patel was allegedly involved in deaths of his patients, and forgery and other similar charges. Doctor Death is in custody of Australian authorities since March, and now it will be the month of February next year that judgment on his crime would come up.

 

Continuing his statement, prosecutor Meredith said that more than 120 witnesses may be called for examination, and an additional two weeks have been set aside in April to accommodate overseas or interstate witnesses who cannot attend during the initial hearing. On the other hand, Patel's defense team may be required to provide a list of required witnesses, and in this regard they have an opportunity on September 19, when the case will be reviewed.

 

Currently, Patel is on bail after paying the cash surety of Australian $20,000 ($17,000); under the bail conditions, Patel has to report to the police three days a week, not leave Queensland or approach an international airport. His passport has been impounded and he has been prohibited to communicate with witnesses. Dr Death has been charged with 14 offences, including three counts of manslaughter, two counts of grievous bodily harm, and fraud.