Family and friends of Molly Ticehurst convened in anticipation of her alleged murderer, Daniel Billings, appearing in court, only for the case to face another postponement. Billings, aged 30, was scheduled to attend Parkes Local Court today, charged with the domestic violence murder of Ticehurst.
During a brief court mention in May, Magistrate Michael Maher ordered Billings to appear via audio-visual link for a committal, marking the first time he would have been seen in court since June 2024. However, Ticehurst’s grieving family witnessed from the public gallery as the court informed them that Billings would not be present, leading to an adjournment until August.
Billings, who is currently detained in Goulburn’s supermax facility, faces multiple allegations beyond her murder, including charges of sexual assault and stalking related to Ticehurst. In April 2024, Ticehurst, a 28-year-old childcare educator, was found deceased in her Forbes home.
Significantly, just a fortnight prior to Ticehurst’s death, Billings was granted bail on previous charges against her, including three counts concerning sexual intercourse without consent. His history also includes four counts of stalking and property destruction, as well as aggravated animal cruelty towards Ticehurst’s puppy in 2023. More severe charges, including aggravated sexual assault, were filed against him in December 2024.
Court documents alleged that during the purported aggravated sexual assault, Billings threatened further physical harm to Ticehurst. He has yet to enter any pleas regarding the charges.
The tragedy of Ticehurst’s death has ignited a national outcry against domestic violence, fostering a broader campaign for change. This movement has led to significant amendments in New South Wales legislation, including revoking registrars’ authority to grant bail, implementing stringent “show cause” conditions for domestic violence-related bail requests, and requiring electronic monitoring for those accused.
Support services are available, including 1800 RESPECT (1800 737 732), Lifeline at 13 11 14, and the Men’s Referral Service on 1300 766 491 for those affected by domestic violence.