A woman who beheaded her mother during an argument over a food order has issued a chilling warning to her fellow inmates. On the evening of July 20, 2019, Jessica Camilleri clashed with her mother, Rita Camilleri, when Rita ordered chicken from Red Rooster for dinner, prompting Jessica to demand more food, leading to a fatal confrontation. The situation intensified as Rita, a full-time carer, entered Jessica’s room to confiscate her phone due to prior issues, escalating the conflict.
The events that followed shocked the quiet western Sydney neighborhood where Camilleri lived. Recounting the incident to forensic psychiatrist Professor David Greenberg, Camilleri described a moment of losing control, leading to a series of violent actions. Despite the gruesome nature of the crime, Camilleri appears unrepentant even years later, boasting about the murder to other prisoners and making threats of similar violence.
Subsequently, Camilleri’s aggressive behavior continued in prison, with reported assaults on both inmates and officers. These incidents, captured on camera in May 2025, involved Camilleri physically harming officers, causing distress among the staff. Facing upcoming sentencing for her actions, Camilleri’s violent tendencies seem unabated, potentially resulting in prolonged incarceration beyond her current sentence.
Initially charged with manslaughter due to mental health disorders, Camilleri received a reduced sentence on appeal, making her eligible for parole in 2031. However, her recent violent outbursts suggest a high likelihood of extended imprisonment following the upcoming court appearance. The heinous nature of Camilleri’s crime, which involved mutilating her mother’s body, continues to shock both prison authorities and fellow inmates, highlighting the disturbing details of the case.