Chalmers Seeks Dismissal of Rape, Murder Charges, Calling Prosecution Case 'Guesswork'
Michael James Chalmers, accused of rape and murder, argued the prosecution's case was "guesswork" in court, seeking to have the charges dismissed.
Chalmers, 36, appeared in Melbourne Magistrates Court, charged in connection with the death of Yuko, a 62-year-old sex worker. Yuko was discovered deceased at her Footscray brothel in Melbourne's west in late November 2024.
Prosecution Presents CCTV Evidence
Prosecutor Jordan Johnston stated that CCTV footage showed Chalmers speaking with Yuko before allegedly restraining her. Johnston informed the court that the interaction began with violence.
The prosecutor added that Chalmers was seen leaving the brothel room approximately 30 minutes later, at which point Yuko was reportedly unconscious or deceased. Pathologists previously testified that Yuko's death was likely due to strangulation or smothering. The prosecutor contended that Yuko's injuries were consistent with rape, describing the CCTV footage as depicting a violent act.
Defence Challenges Evidence, Cites 'Guesswork'
Defence barrister Barnaby Johnston countered, stating that no DNA evidence connected Chalmers to the injuries and noting that Yuko had interacted with other clients prior to her death.
The defence barrister characterized the cause of injuries as "utter guesswork."
He requested Magistrate Vincenzo Caltabiano to dismiss the charges of rape and the state offence of murder, which posits that Chalmers unintentionally caused death during the alleged rape. Chalmers faces an additional charge of common law murder.
Decision Pending
The prosecutor acknowledged the case was circumstantial but maintained it should proceed to a jury trial.
Magistrate Caltabiano will assess if there is sufficient evidence to commit Chalmers to trial in the Supreme Court on any or all charges. A decision is expected on March 31.