Daniel Billings sentenced to 28 years for murder of Molly Ticehurst

Daniel Billings, 31, has been sentenced to 28 years in prison for the April 2024 murder of Molly Ticehurst, a childcare worker and mother from Forbes, New South Wales. Justice Natalie Adams of the NSW Supreme Court set a non-parole period of 20 years, meaning Billings will not be eligible for release until 2044.

The court heard that Billings broke into Ms. Ticehurst’s home and stabbed her 15 times with a hunting knife. The attack was described as occurring within a 59-second window. Prosecutors noted that Billings had a history of abusing Ms. Ticehurst, including allegations of sexual assault and the killing of the victim's puppy. Despite these prior reports and charges, Billings had been released on bail prior to the fatal attack.

Justice Adams described the murder as senseless and noted that it must have been “absolutely terrifying” for Ms. Ticehurst to die knowing her worst fears had been realized. The judge acknowledged the significant impact the death has had on the victim's family and loved ones.