Tina Chapman Nambucca Heads unit fire case latest: mental fitness in doubt

The mental health assessment of a woman facing charges related to a Mid-North Coast unit fire is under review, casting doubt on whether she is fit to stand trial.

Emergency services were called after smoke was billowing from the Bank St blaze on July 6 2023. Picture: Fire Rescue NSW

The mental health assessment of a woman facing charges related to a Mid-North Coast unit fire is under review casting doubt on whether she is fit to stand trial.

Tina Maree Chapman, 47, is charged over a fire that gutted a unit in Banks St, Nambucca Heads in July 2023.

A court heard that an initial mental health assessment found she “was unfit” to stand trial and not likely to become fit for trial.

However the court heard that assessment is being reviewed as her defence lawyer Mr Huxley said he is awaiting a tribunal review of the fitness ruling.

While the outcome remains uncertain, the case before the district court is already shaping up to be a long legal saga.

No injuries were reported from the blaze that ripped through the Nambucca Heads unit.

As Chapman has been in custody for close to two years Judge Michael McHugh expressed his concern.

“The delay in this is most unfortunate and unsatisfactory,” he told the court on Monday.

Chapman is charged with damaging property worth more than $15,000 by fire or explosion and destroying or damaging property and is yet to enter a plea.

The case returns to the Coffs Harbour District Court on July 14.

Bail was not applied for and has been formally refused.

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Originally published as Tina Chapman Nambucca Heads unit fire case latest: mental fitness in doubt