A judge has reversed a sentence for an inmate who fought back against Jessica Camilleri, a prisoner known for her extreme violence. The decision came after CCTV footage and court testimony revealed the terror Camilleri has inflicted on other inmates and staff since her incarceration for the 2019 murder of her mother.
In February 2025, Camilleri attacked another inmate, identified only as LV, in the Dillwynia women's prison. CCTV footage shows Camilleri grabbing LV by the hair from behind and pulling with significant force, an act described as an attempt to "scalp" her. LV, who was serving time for drug and dishonesty offenses, retaliated. She was subsequently convicted of common assault and sentenced to an additional month in prison.
However, Judge Guy Newton SC acknowledged the unusual circumstances, stating he fully believed LV's account of the extreme fear caused by Camilleri. He found LV's evidence to be candid and did not believe Camilleri's version of events. "The circumstances are quite extreme," Judge Newton remarked, noting the urgency and fear displayed by other inmates during the incident, even without audio from the CCTV.
LV's legal representative argued that she acted out of fear for herself and others, believing guards would not intervene in time. The court heard that Camilleri had a history of such attacks, including tearing out hair and leaving wounds on inmates and prison officers, often threatening to repeat the violence she inflicted on her mother.
Camilleri, who was convicted of manslaughter for killing her mother Rita Camilleri in 2019, has become a significant threat within the prison system. She used seven knives to inflict over 100 cuts on her mother, ultimately decapitating her and leaving her head on a footpath. She is currently serving a 16-year sentence and is eligible for parole in December 2033.
During the hearing, Camilleri presented a different account of the incident with LV, claiming it was a setup by other inmates to have her transferred to a psychiatric hospital. She suggested a conspiracy to portray her as unstable and compared her situation to that of Katherine Knight, who is serving a life sentence for murder.
Judge Newton's decision to quash LV's sentence highlights the perceived provocation by Camilleri. He noted that LV and other inmates were aware of Camilleri's dangerous history. LV's lawyer had criticized prison authorities for inadequate supervision of Camilleri, calling it an invitation for violence.
In addition to the attack on LV, Camilleri also assaulted a second inmate who attempted to intervene during the altercation. This further underscored the climate of fear Camilleri has created, prompting the judge to remark on the extraordinary nature of her actions and their impact on other prisoners.