The devastated family of a mother-of-three allegedly killed by her RAAF pilot husband launched a global plea for information in the run-up to his arrest.
Robert Crawford, 47, allegedly killed his wife Frances, 39, and moved her body to stage it as a riding mower accident on their property in Upper Lockyer, south-east Queensland, at 3.40am on July 30.
He was arrested on Thursday after police last week issued a public appeal for people to come forward as they revealed he had allegedly been messaging women on dating apps around the world and in Australia.
Police will allege he had links with women in countries including the US, Italy, Papua New Guinea, Afghanistan, Guam, Japan, New Zealand and every state and territory in Australia except South Australia and Tasmania.
Since the announcement, Ms Crawford’s relatives – including some in New Zealand and the Netherlands, where her parents are from – have appealed online for people to contact police.
‘At the request of the family, please share!’ wrote a cousin in the Netherlands.
‘The more it is shared, the greater the reach: information or tips are sought internationally!’
Another family member who shared the call wrote: “If anyone knows anything about this please contact Queensland Police.”
Frances Crawford was found dead on her property in Upper Lockyer in the early hours of July 30
Robert Crawford (pictured) has been charged over her alleged murder
‘Frances is my uncle’s sister and the family is really hurting right now.
“Your love and support would be appreciated.”
Shortly after Crawford’s arrest, Queensland Police said people had contacted detectives in recent days thanking them for their “bravery”.
In recent days, several family members and friends have also paid tribute to Ms Crawford by using a photo of her as their Facebook profile picture.
In the comments section of some posts, Ms. Crawford’s mother wrote, “Our beautiful girl.”
Footage released by police on Thursday shows detectives at his home talking barefoot to Crawford, wearing a T-shirt and shorts, and arresting him before escorting him to a police car.
He was later captured driving into Ipswich Watchhouse, where he leaned forward to try to hide his face from the cameras.
Police will allege Crawford had links with other women from Australia and abroad
His case was heard by acting magistrate Sue Ganasan at Ipswich Magistrates Court on Friday, where his lawyer Andrew McGinness asked for the case to be adjourned for two weeks.
Crawford, who has been charged with murder (crime of domestic violence) and misconduct with a corpse by interfering with it, did not appear in court and did not apply for bail.
Outside court, Mr McGinness did not answer questions from reporters.
The Australian Defense Force declined to comment and referred all questions to Queensland Police.
Mrs Crawford was a much-loved local psychologist, while her husband was a RAAF Squadron Leader, operating from the Royal Australian Air Force base at Amberley, about 5 miles south-west of Ipswich.
Last month, Crawford listed the “peaceful, off-grid” family home for rent on Airbnb for $350 a night.
The advertisement made no mention of the July tragedy and advertised it as being for a serene retreat.
‘Our house [is] a short drive to Toowoomba, and beautifully positioned to relax and enjoy the peace and serenity of nature,” it added.
The listing was removed after media publicity.
Crawford was charged with murder (felony domestic violence) and misconduct with a corpse by interfering
He is pictured being escorted from his home in Queensland on Thursday
Mrs. Crawford is remembered as a loving mother, daughter, sister and friend, and a valued member of her community
Following news of Crawford’s arrest, her grieving family released a statement describing the “very heavy blow” her children have suffered.
“Frances Crawford will be remembered as a loving mother, beloved daughter, sister and friend and dedicated healthcare worker and valued member of her church and community,” the statement said.
“Her death is devastating to all of us, even more so given the circumstances.
The death of ‘Frances’ will profoundly affect each of us for the rest of our lives, but none more so than her three beautiful children. They are wonderful young adults who will continue Frances’ legacy.
“They have indeed suffered a very heavy blow as they each embark on their own journey, but with the support of family and good people around them, they will not be defined by this or what came before.”
The family thanked police, their community and the media, but said they will now focus on “seeking justice for Frances.”
“While today is a step forward, unfortunately nothing will bring Frances back to us. “We know we have a long and difficult road ahead, both in grieving Frances and coming to terms with what has happened,” the statement continued.
“As we process our loss and events, we respectfully request privacy during this very difficult time.”
Crawford’s case will be heard at Ipswich Magistrates Court on October 25.