Justin Jeffries pleads guilty to triple murder and related crimes in Rotorua
Justin Matthew Jeffries admitted guilt to killing three Rotorua residents and committing burglary and fraud after a four-day spree in September 2024.
In a court appearance via video link, 52-year-old Justin Matthew Jeffries pleaded guilty to three murders that occurred over a four-day period in September 2024. He killed Michelle Nicola Schiller, 59, after a dispute, striking her multiple times with a mallet and leaving her body for four days. He later attacked Jessie Florence Currin, 78, and Glendon Brent Currin, 77, at their Russell Crescent home, also using the same weapon, and assaulted their nephew who arrived after hearing screams.
After the first killing, Jeffries rummaged through Schiller’s house, stealing money and items to trade for methamphetamine. He had known the Currins for more than 30 years, receiving guidance and occasional work from them after returning from Australia. In addition to the murders, Jeffries admitted to wounding a person with intent to cause grievous bodily harm, burglary of Schiller’s residence, and unlawful use of her bank card. He will be sentenced on December 8.
Why it matters
The case highlights severe domestic violence and the failure of support networks to prevent a lethal escalation.
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