A former reality television contestant, accused of a gruesome murder, is reportedly pregnant while in custody. Tamika Chesser, 34, who once appeared on the show “Beauty and the Greek,” faces serious charges following the death of her boyfriend, Julian Story, 39, in June.
Authorities allege that Chesser killed Story at their shared home in Port Lincoln, South Australia. The charges include accusations of decapitating and dismembering him before attempting to set his body ablaze. His skull was discovered about six weeks later in a nearby bushland area.
Currently held at James Nash House, a forensic mental health facility in Adelaide, Chesser is expected to deliver the baby early next year. The circumstances surrounding the identity of the child’s father remain undisclosed.
Chesser is charged with murder, tampering with human remains, and assaulting a police officer. Her initial court appearance is slated for December.
Despite the serious charges she faces, officials have confirmed that Chesser will receive standard health care services available to pregnant women in custody.
It is unclear who the father of the child is, and authorities said Chesser will have access to typical health arrangements from pregnant women in custody.
The update comes as authorities continue to investigate Mr Story’s death, who police allege was killed on June 17, the day after his 39th birthday.
Chesser is accused of decapitating him and setting his body alight inside the bathroom of their Port Lincoln unit. His head was not found until six weeks later.
Former reality TV star Tamika Chesser (pictured) is accused of murdering and beheading her boyfriend Julian Story in June. Authorities have revealed the 34-year-old is now pregnant
Julian Story was allegedly killed the day after his 39th birthday. He was farewelled at a private service in August and remembered as a talented musician and beloved son
Chesser, dressed in black, is pictured on CCTV walking her dog after she allegedly murdered Mr Story
CCTV footage captured a woman, dressed in black, walking three dogs a short time after the alleged murder.
Police allege Chesser is the woman in the footage and that she may allegedly have used the bag to transport Mr Story’s head from the unit.
Premier Peter Malinauskas called the alleged crimes ‘very unique’ and ‘egregious,’ noting the unusual situation of a woman being pregnant in custody.
‘Women who find themselves pregnant while in custody have access to very specific services that are tailored to prison health,’ Malinauskas said.
‘Just as importantly, if not more importantly, the wellbeing of a life that exists in utero is being looked after as well.’
Health Minister Chris Picton confirmed Chesser did not become pregnant while in custody and said strict protocols exist between corrections and health services.
‘There are protocols in place between corrections and mental health, and our health services if someone is pregnant in one of our facilities,’ Picton said.
Mr Story was laid to rest by friends and family in August at a private service at St Mary of the Angels Catholic Church.
Tamika Chesser placed second in the 2010 series of Beauty and the Geek. The former cocktail waitress also modelled for a number of brands before being accused of murder
Chesser is being held at James Nash House, a forensic mental health care facility. Health Minister Chris Picton confirmed Chesser did not become pregnant while in custody
Ms Story’s death rocked the Port Lincoln community, with searches for his remains spanning weeks and involving assistance from police and SES volunteers
He was remembered as a ‘very talented musician’, a beloved son and ‘a bit of a trickster’.
The 34-year-old’s family has previously released a statement thanking the authorities and community for their sympathies.
‘We are navigating an unimaginable loss, and your care has brought comfort amid the chaos,’ the family said.
‘Your prayers, presence, and quiet strength mean more than words can say.’
Chesser featured in the second series of the Beauty and the Greek in 2010. She placed second in the show, aired by the Seven Network.
The former cocktail waitress has also modelled for a number of brands including Target and David Jones and appeared in a number of men’s magazines.
Chesser is next due to appear in court in December.
