Foster brother faces incest charge following schoolgirl’s death as her foster father is charged with her murder
Tiahleigh Palmer was found dead in a river after allegedly becoming involved in sexual relationship with her foster brother
A YOUNG girl allegedly murdered by her foster-father was feared pregnant by her FOSTER-BROTHER, a court has heard.
Tiahleigh Palmer's body was found on the banks of the Pimpama River near Brisbane, Queensland, last year.
And an Australian court heard that Rick Thorburn killed the 12-year-old because of a feared underage and incestuous relationship between her and his then-18 year old boy Trent.
Bombshell revelations heard at Beenleigh magistrates court revealed how Trent allegedly admitted he slept with Tiahleigh and feared she was pregnant.
The court also heard how Tiahleigh had revealed to a friend her sexual relationship with her sibling before she died.
She was said to have told her foster mother of the pairing.
Trent's father Rick is accused of murdering the youngster in a bid to cover his son's actions.
Police prosecutor Sergeant Ellen French told the court: "The victim was put in care and protection of the defendant and his family.
“This defendant betrayed her trust. He abused his position as big brother and took advantage of her.
“A consequence of that is her young life has been taken."
Thorburn Snr is accused of the murder while his son, 19, has been denied bail on four charges, including incest.
His wife, Julene, 54, and 20-year-old son Josh have each been charged with perjury and attempting to pervert the course of justice.
The body of Tiahleigh - who had been in the family's care for ten months - was discovered nine days after her disappearance by fishermen.
More than 60 detectives spent months putting together the investigation - including the sending of CCTV footage to the UK for analysis.
Foster-dad Thorburn - who carried Tiahleigh's coffin at her funeral - remains in custody awaiting trial after his bail application was denied.
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