Police investigating the murder of 37-year-old Teishallia Te Paea in Camberley, Hastings, in October are hoping an offender profile released today will help identify them.
Emergency services were called to an address in Kotuku Street, Camberley, on 29 October, after Teishallia’s body was located.
Sadly, her body had lain undiscovered for likely several weeks, as attempts had been made to conceal her.
Detective Inspector Martin James says Police are determined to get answers for Teishallia’s family.
“It has been weeks since Teishallia’s whānau lost her, and as we come up towards Christmas, we are more determined than ever to get a result,” he says.
“We know someone in the community knows what happened, and that as time goes on, that knowledge will be eating away at them.
“Do the right thing – come forward and tell us what you know.”
Detective Inspector James says the investigation team has sought assistance from New Zealand Police’s Behavioural Science Unit (BSU), who provide specialist expertise for major crime investigations.
“We recognise that this offence has been committed in a unique way, and we need to advance the investigation by bringing in expertise to catch the offender.
“The Behaviorual Science Unit has assisted with several homicide investigations across the country over the years. They have provided a preliminary analysis of the offence and the perpetrator that we are looking for.
“If anyone knows of someone that fits the following profile, it is important that this information is shared with us.”
“In respect to the offence, we believe the following:
- The offender was known to Teishallia
- The offence was a targeted act of violence
- The offender had knowledge of the property at Kotuku Street, Camberley
- The attempt to conceal the crime was to create distance between the offender and Teishallia
In the weeks since Teishallia’s death, this person may have acted differently – avoiding questions about their movements, being evasive about Teishallia, and using family or friends for protection.
“If you know someone that was in contact with Teishallia and fits this profile and is reluctant to talk about their interactions with her, then please share this information with us.”
Anyone with information can contact Police via their 105 service, either over the phone or online, selecting ‘Update Report’ and using file number 251029/3817.
Alternatively, anonymous information can be passed to Police via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111 or here.
