The case was complex and gained notoriety due to several factors:
* Lack of a body: Barbara Gillies' body was never found.
* Circumstantial evidence: The conviction relied heavily on circumstantial evidence, including inconsistencies in Jerry Gillies' story and suspicious activities.
* Media attention: The case received significant media attention, which contributed to its notoriety.
Jerry Gillies maintained his innocence throughout his trial and subsequent appeals. The case remains controversial, with some believing he was wrongly convicted.