“If I end up dead, he 100 percent did it,” Molly Ticehurst texted a friend, foreseeing the tragic end that would come six weeks later. Her ex-boyfriend, Daniel Billings, broke into her home in Forbes, New South Wales, and murdered her, fulfilling a threat he had chillingly articulated.
After a year of delays that tormented Ticehurst’s grieving family, Billings finally confessed to the murder, a case that has galvanized the nation against domestic violence and prompted changes to the state’s bail laws. Ticehurst, a 28-year-old childcare worker, was killed in April last year after Billings was released from custody despite previous alleged attacks.
Legal Proceedings and Guilty Plea
On Friday, Billings appeared in Forbes Local Court, where he spoke only to confirm his name. His lawyer, Diane Elston, announced his guilty plea to the charge of murder. Billings also pleaded guilty to contravening an Apprehended Violence Order (AVO) and a charge of animal cruelty, while a raft of other charges were withdrawn and dismissed.
A fact sheet released by the court detailed Ticehurst’s attempts to seek police help in April 2024. She reported Billings for rape, smashing her car window, and killing her dachshund puppy. Despite these serious allegations, Billings was granted bail by a court registrar due to the unavailability of a magistrate on a Saturday.
The Fatal Night
Just a fortnight after being released on bail, Billings carried out his threats. The court documents revealed that it took him only 59 seconds to break into Ticehurst’s home, stab her 15 times, and flee. Billings left handwritten notes declaring his innocence and recorded videos before and after the murder, one of which chillingly stated, “I’ve just murdered my ex-girlfriend.”
Community and Family Reactions
Ticehurst’s mother watched the court proceedings with visible distress, while about 50 locals gathered outside the courthouse in support of the family, some wearing T-shirts emblazoned with “She matters.” The crowd erupted in applause when the family emerged from the court, marking a moment of communal solidarity.
The prolonged legal process has been a source of agony for the Ticehurst family. Molly’s father, Tony Ticehurst, expressed his frustration with the justice system, stating, “It seems to me that in life the system let Molly down and in death it continues the same route.”
“Instead of getting closure, all we get is anxiety, sadness, and heartache.” – Tony Ticehurst
Impact and Legal Reforms
The case has led to significant legal reforms in New South Wales. New laws now mandate that those granted bail must wear electronic monitoring devices, and registrars no longer have the power to grant bail. Courts must consider “red flag” behaviors, such as sexual abuse and coercive control, when deciding bail conditions.
Premier Chris Minns acknowledged the system’s failure, stating, “This was a terrible, terrible death. The status quo isn’t working. We need to be looking at change to keep people safe, particularly as they’re awaiting justice.”
Remembering Molly Ticehurst
Molly Ticehurst’s funeral, held at Forbes Rugby Club in May 2024, was a poignant event that resonated nationwide. Homes across the town turned on their porch lights in her honor, and heartfelt messages were shared, including a touching note from a young boy who expressed his love and longing for his mother.
“Dear Mum, I love you. I miss our holidays together and our tickle fights. I miss you a lot, and I will love you every day and night. You are the best mum in the world.”
The community’s response and the subsequent legal changes underscore the enduring impact of Ticehurst’s tragic death. As Billings awaits sentencing in the NSW Supreme Court, the case continues to serve as a catalyst for ongoing discussions about domestic violence and judicial accountability.
If you or anyone you know needs support, contact the National Sexual Assault, Domestic and Family Violence Counselling Service at 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732).
