Key Takeaways:
- Jude Luckshan Wijesinghe has been sentenced to 30 years in prison for the murder of his co-worker Tshewang Choden.
- The attack was described as "one of sustained brutality" by the ACT Chief Justice.
- Wijesinghe had developed an infatuation with Ms Choden, but there was no evidence that the feeling was mutual.
- The motive behind the murder was Wijesinghe’s inability to accept that he could not have Ms Choden for himself.
- Wijesinghe will be eligible for parole in 2043 and his full sentence will expire on 17 December, 2053.
Introduction to the Case
The sentencing of Jude Luckshan Wijesinghe to 30 years in prison for the murder of his co-worker Tshewang Choden has brought closure to a tragic and brutal case. The attack, which occurred on 18 December 2023, at the National Zoo & Aquarium, was described by ACT Chief Justice Lucy McCallum as "one of sustained brutality". Wijesinghe, who was Ms Choden’s supervisor and had developed an infatuation with her, pleaded guilty to the murder after initially pleading not guilty.
The Events Leading Up to the Murder
Wijesinghe and Ms Choden worked together as chefs at the zoo, but in the lead-up to her death, Ms Choden had been moved to the morning roster. Wijesinghe had become increasingly obsessed with Ms Choden, and his infatuation eventually turned to violence. On the day of the murder, Wijesinghe arrived at work at 12:20 pm and sent a text message to his friends saying goodbye at 12:40 pm. A nearby construction worker heard a woman screaming frantically at 12:45 pm and called Triple Zero. Wijesinghe was found with cuts to his throat and wrists and had also vomited rat poison he had consumed in the storeroom.
The Murder and Its Aftermath
Ms Choden was found deceased with 14 stabbing and slashing wounds to her head, neck, chest, and upper extremities, caused by a Japanese boning knife. The ACT Chief Justice described Ms Choden’s final moments as ones of "abject terror". Wijesinghe’s actions were motivated by his inability to accept that he could not have Ms Choden for himself. The court heard that Wijesinghe had sent messages to friends suggesting that Ms Choden had "led him on" and "f***ed with his head", but there was no evidence to support this claim. The murder has had a significant impact on the community, with the management and staff at Jamala Wildlife Lodge and National Zoo and Aquarium expressing their thoughts and concerns for Ms Choden’s family, friends, and work colleagues.
The Sentencing and Its Implications
Wijesinghe was sentenced to 30 years in prison, with a non-parole period of 20 years. Given his time already spent in prison, Wijesinghe will be eligible for parole in 2043 and his full sentence will expire on 17 December, 2053. The sentence reflects the seriousness of the crime and the need to protect the community from further harm. The ACT Chief Justice noted that Wijesinghe had "every opportunity to seek support" and was capable of "rational deliberation" in the lead-up to the offence. However, Wijesinghe’s ongoing fixation with Ms Choden and lack of insight into his crime were significant factors in the sentencing decision.
Conclusion and Support Services
The murder of Tshewang Choden is a tragic reminder of the devastating consequences of violence against women. The case highlights the importance of seeking help and support for those who may be struggling with mental health issues or obsessive behaviors. If you or someone you know is experiencing distress or concerns, there are support services available, including Lifeline’s 24-hour crisis support line on 13 11 14, the Suicide Call Back Service on 1300 659 467, Kids Helpline on 1800 551 800, and MensLine Australia on 1300 789 978. These services provide confidential and non-judgmental support to those in need.
