Triple Killer Lived with Foster Children in Australia, Sparking Outrage
Sydney, Australia – A convicted triple murderer in Australia lived for months in a home with two foster children before authorities intervened, prompting a public outcry and a government apology. Reginald Arthurell, who spent nearly 39 years in prison for the violent deaths of three people, was removed from the Sydney residence on Monday following a raid by heavily armed police.
The case, initially reported by 2GB radio, has ignited a firestorm of criticism regarding oversight within New South Wales’ (NSW) foster care system. Authorities were reportedly alerted to Arthurell’s presence in the home as early as December, yet no action was taken for several months.
NSW Minister for Families and Communities Kate Washington issued a public apology Tuesday, stating the situation “should never have been allowed.” “It is entirely unacceptable for a vulnerable child in the care of the state to be living with a triple murderer,” she said, adding that “very poor decisions were made” and a review is underway to determine how the situation occurred.
Arthurell, who began identifying as a woman and using the name Regina after being released from prison in 2020, had been living with a 12-year-old and a 14-year-old. He reportedly moved into the home with an approved foster carer after meeting her while she worked at a hospital where he was a patient. The carer, who was already fostering two children, invited Arthurell to live with them as a housemate.
The foster carer’s daughter reportedly discovered Arthurell’s violent past through an online search in late 2025. She attempted to raise concerns with her mother, but was told, “This person has changed.”
Arthurell’s criminal history dates back to 1974, beginning with a manslaughter conviction for fatally stabbing a man believed to be his stepfather. He was later convicted for the 1981 death of a 19-year-old sailor during a robbery. While on parole in 1995, he murdered his fiancée, Venet Mulhall, by beating her to death. Disturbingly, reports indicate Arthurell took selfies while wearing Mulhall’s clothing following her murder.
Court documents reveal alcohol played a role in all three of Arthurell’s killings.
Following his removal from the foster home, Arthurell is now residing in private accommodation. The incident has prompted calls for greater scrutiny of background checks and risk assessments within the NSW foster care system, and raised serious questions about the safety and well-being of vulnerable children in state care.
