'Dr. Death' Jayant Patel on suicide watch

Brisbane, July 1 (ANI): Convicted Indian-origin surgeon Jayant Patel a.k.a. 'Dr. Death' is on precautionary suicide watch, as he awaits his sentencing today, Seven News reports.

The former Bundaberg Base Hospital surgeon has been found guilty of the manslaughter of three patients and the grievous bodily harm of a fourth.

According to the Courier Mail, Supreme Court judge John Byrne began the sentencing hearing at 10 a.m. today, but has adjourned his decision over lunch, and will reconvene the court at 3.30 p.m. (AEST).

Manslaughter carries a maximum jail sentence of life, and grievous bodily harm up to 14 years' jail.

It had been expected Patel would remain in the city watch-house until his sentencing, but a decision was made to send him to the traditional holding centre for prisoners awaiting sentence at Wacol.

While a Department of Corrective Services official confirmed Patel was under suicide watch, he emphasized it was not because of any actual threat.

Patel was admitted to the Arthur Gorrie centre at 8.30 a.m. yesterday, but will be brought back to the Supreme Court for sentencing. (ANI)