Woman who decapitated her own mum is accused of another alarming crime behind bars
A woman serving a lengthy sentence for a horrific crime has once again found herself at the center of controversy behind bars. Jessica Camilleri, now 37, was convicted in 2021 for the brutal manslaughter of her mother in a case that stunned the nation. The incident, which occurred in 2019, saw the then-30-year-old attack her mother with such ferocity that it left a lasting mark on public consciousness. Now, reports of a fresh altercation at Dillwynia Correctional Centre in Sydney's west have reignited discussions about her behavior and the challenges of managing her incarceration.
According to sources familiar with the situation, Camilleri allegedly lashed out at another inmate in mid-February 2025, reportedly pulling out handfuls of hair during a heated confrontation. The incident, described as unprovoked, took place in a common area where other prisoners were present, escalating tensions until staff stepped in. Scattered hair was found around the scene, hinting at the intensity of the clash. Authorities quickly separated Camilleri from the unit, and health checks confirmed no serious injuries among those involved. Local police were informed, though further details on potential charges remain unclear.
This isn't the first time Camilleri has faced accusations of violence in prison. Insiders note this marks her sixth alleged assault involving hair-pulling, targeting both fellow inmates and guards. Her history includes a 2023 incident at Silverwater Correctional Complex, where she attacked two officers, adding nearly two years to her sentence. Just last year, she admitted to assaulting two more guards at Dillwynia, citing frustration as her motive, which tacked another year onto her time. Only days after that guilty plea, she was reportedly involved in another inmate altercation, suggesting a troubling pattern.
Camilleri's original conviction stemmed from a deeply disturbing act—stabbing her mother over 100 times and leaving her severed head outside their Sydney home. Found guilty of manslaughter rather than murder due to significant mental health challenges, she was sentenced to a minimum of 16 years. Her parole eligibility is currently set for December 2032, but these repeated incidents raise questions about her rehabilitation and the prison system's ability to address her needs.
Staff at Dillwynia have reportedly struggled to manage her, with some describing her as a persistent challenge. The broader issue points to the complexities of housing inmates with complex psychological conditions in high-pressure environments. While Camilleri has expressed remorse in some instances, her actions continue to spark concern, leaving authorities grappling with how to balance discipline, safety, and support.
As this latest episode unfolds, it underscores the ongoing difficulties within correctional facilities and the ripple effects of a case that remains etched in Australia's memory.
