What drives a teenager to become a killer? In 2001, three-year-old Courtney Morley-Clarke was put to bed on a hot summer night on the NSW Central Coast. By morning, her bed was empty, the screen door wide open, and her nightie lay on the ground. Police soon discovered Courtney hadn’t wandered off, she was abducted and murdered by her 13-year-old neighbour, Australia’s youngest convicted killer. He confessed it was practice for more killings. After serving 22 years in prison, he’s now back in the community. So, how can someone so young commit such a horrific act? Criminal psychologist Tim Watson-Munro joins us to explain. Listen to the Motive & Method podcast here . If any of the contents in this episode have caused distress, know that there is help available via Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 . Make sure to leave us a rating and review on Apple & Spotify to let us know how you're liking the episodes. CREDITS Guest: Tim Watson-Munro Host: Claire Murphy Senior Producer: Tahli Blackman Audio Producer: Jacob Round GET IN TOUCH We finally have an Instagram! Follow us @truecrimeconversations Follow us on TikTok @truecrimeconversations Want us to cover a case on the podcast? Email us at
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