Jessica Lee was born on the 14th of March, 1994, in Hobart, Tasmania, to Jonathan and Margaret Lee. Her father, Jonathan, was a respected civil engineer known for his work on the city's infrastructure projects, while her mother, Margaret, was a dedicated primary school teacher who nurtured Jessica's early love for learning. Jessica was the eldest of three children, with a younger brother, Thomas, and a sister, Emily. The Lee family was close-knit, often spending weekends hiking in the Tasmanian wilderness or engaging in spirited discussions around the dinner table.

From a young age, Jessica exhibited a keen intellect and a strong sense of justice. She excelled in her studies at St. Margaret's School, where she was known for her analytical mind and her ability to articulate complex arguments during debates. Her passion for justice was evident in her involvement with the school's debate team, where she led her team to numerous regional championships. Her academic prowess earned her top marks in her GCSEs, particularly in English, Mathematics, and History.

In 2010, Jessica continued her education at Hobart College, where she pursued A-Levels in Law, Psychology, and Sociology. Her interest in the legal system and criminal behaviour deepened, fuelled by her coursework and her fascination with true crime documentaries. Jessica was appointed Head Girl in her final year, a role that allowed her to develop her leadership and organisational skills further.

Jessica's commitment to her studies and her burgeoning interest in criminology led her to the University of Tasmania, where she enrolled in a Bachelor of Criminology and Criminal Justice programme in 2013. Her university years were marked by academic excellence; she graduated with First Class Honours in 2016. Her dissertation, which explored the impact of community policing in urban areas, received high praise from her professors. During her studies, Jessica also completed an internship with the Tasmania Police Force, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in various departments.

Upon graduating, Jessica joined the Hobart Police Station as a Graduate Trainee. She underwent rigorous training at the Tasmania Police Academy, where she rotated through different units, including Traffic, General Duties, and Community Policing. Her diligence and thoroughness during this period did not go unnoticed, and she quickly became known for her investigative acumen.

By 2017, Jessica had earned her place as a Constable at the Hobart Police Station. She was assigned to the General Duties Unit, where she handled routine patrols and responded to emergencies. Her meticulous approach to incident reports and her proactive engagement with the community helped her stand out. Jessica was deeply involved in the Murphy Casefiles, a series of high-profile investigations that cemented her reputation as a dedicated officer.

Jessica's career continued to ascend when she was promoted to Senior Constable in 2019. In this role, she led investigations into numerous burglary and theft cases, showcasing her ability to manage complex cases with precision. Her proactive approach to community policing initiatives earned her the respect of both her colleagues and the citizens she served.

In 2020, Jessica transitioned to the Criminal Investigation Branch (CIB) as a Detective Constable. She successfully completed detective training and played a crucial role in dismantling organised crime rings and tackling drug trafficking in Hobart. Her outstanding service was recognised with the Tasmania Police Service Medal.

By 2022, Jessica had risen to the rank of Detective Sergeant in the Major Crimes Unit. In this capacity, she led investigations into major crimes, including homicides and large-scale fraud. Known for her meticulous investigative techniques and her ability to remain composed under pressure, Jessica became a cornerstone of the Major Crimes Unit. She was instrumental in implementing new forensic technologies within the department, continually pushing for advancements that would aid in solving complex cases.

Jessica's personal life was as rich and fulfilling as her professional one. She maintained close ties with her family, often spending holidays and special occasions with them. Her brother, Thomas, followed in their father's footsteps and became a civil engineer, while her sister, Emily, pursued a career in medicine.

Outside of her demanding career, Jessica had a range of interests that kept her balanced. She was an avid reader, with a particular fondness for classic literature and contemporary crime novels. Her love for the outdoors persisted into adulthood, and she often found solace in hiking and camping trips across Tasmania's scenic landscapes. Jessica was also a skilled pianist, a talent she had nurtured since childhood, and she frequently performed at local community events.