Brisbane magistrate's court to hear `Dr. Death' case from Monday

Brisbane (Australia), Feb.8 (ANI): More than six months after his extradition from the United States, Dr Jayant Patel, an Indian-born surgeon facing 14 charges, including manslaughter, grievous bodily harm and fraud, will be presented for a committal hearing at the Brisbane Magistrates Court on Monday.

According to the Sydney Morning Herald, former patients and their families are expected to join the media in witnessing the event.

Medical experts are expected to testify about the Indian-trained doctor's qualifications and work during his time as director of surgery at Bundaberg Base Hospital in southern Queensland between 2003 and 2005.

It's alleged Patel, 58, performed botched operations that led to death or permanent incapacity for several patients.

The fraud charges centre on allegations he drew a wage from Queensland Health by falsely representing his qualifications.

More than 150 witnesses will give evidence during the hearing, which will run for three weeks, with an additional two weeks available in April.

Two hearing rooms have been set aside to house the large media contingent, as well as friends and family of Patel's alleged victims, the paper reports. (ANI)