TRUE CRIME: The Tale of a Baby and a Propane Torch - Remembering Tesslyn O'Cull

Trigger Warning: This story contains graphic details of child abuse that may be disturbing to some readers. Reader discretion is advised.

The Innocence of Tesslyn Elizabeth O'Cull

Tesslyn Elizabeth O'Cull was born in Ontario, California, on June 8, 1994, to parents Stella Anne Kaiser and Jason Adam O'Cull. Tesslyn, affectionately known as "Tess," was a joyful child with blue eyes and blonde hair. She adored her older brother, Jason Jr., and had a deep love for animals. Her family fondly remembers her sweet nature and her passion for playing with dolls and trucks, drawing, and enjoying bath time with her toys.

A Troubled Family History

Stella, Tesslyn's mother, had a challenging upbringing marked by a controlling and abusive father. Her father's sudden and violent death when Stella was just 13 left deep scars. Stella's teenage years were tumultuous, involving substance abuse and a struggle to find stability. At 16, she gave birth to Jason Jr. and later, at 18, to Tesslyn.

Despite Jason O'Cull's efforts to provide for his family by returning to school and securing a job as a steelworker, Stella was not ready to abandon her party lifestyle. She eventually moved to Springfield, Oregon, seeking a fresh start, but life as a single mother proved difficult. Her struggle with parenting was evident, and Oregon's DHS had to intervene, requiring her to take parenting classes.

Meeting Jesse Caleb Compton

In Springfield, Stella met Jesse Caleb Compton, a man with a violent history. Their relationship quickly became toxic, and Stella moved in with Jesse, exposing Tesslyn to a dangerous environment. Jesse's apartment was filthy, and he was notorious for hosting drug-fueled parties. Witnesses often saw Jesse verbally and physically abusing the toddler, making her stand in corners for hours, and beating her with various objects.

The Horrors Unfold

Despite the red flags, Stella allowed Jesse to discipline Tesslyn. Witnesses reported seeing Jesse drag her by the hair, force her to take cold baths, and even pour beer down her throat. Neighbors often heard screams from their apartment but were too frightened to intervene. Tragically, Tesslyn's suffering went unnoticed by the authorities and those around her.

The Unseen Agony

As Jesse's abuse intensified, Tesslyn's condition worsened. Her tiny body bore the marks of relentless torture, including ligature marks, bruises, and cigarette burns. Despite her visible injuries, Stella continued to leave her in Jesse's care. One night, Jesse struck Tesslyn so violently that she became unresponsive. Instead of seeking medical help, he attempted to revive her with cold water and even electrical shocks. When these efforts failed, Jesse and Stella decided to bury her body in a remote area near Sweet Home, Oregon.

Justice for Tesslyn

The truth about Tesslyn's death came to light when Jesse's sister, Lacy, confessed to the police. Following her directions, authorities discovered Tesslyn's shallow grave and the evidence linking Jesse and Stella to the crime. Both were arrested and charged with aggravated murder and multiple counts of child abuse.

The Courtroom Battle

The trial was a harrowing experience for all involved. Graphic photos of Tesslyn's injuries and detailed autopsy reports left the courtroom in tears. The jury heard testimonies about the unimaginable cruelty Tesslyn endured in her final days. Jesse was found guilty on all counts and sentenced to death, a sentence later commuted to life imprisonment without parole. Stella, despite her claims of mental instability and PTSD, was also found guilty and sentenced to life in prison.

The Aftermath and Call to Action

Tesslyn's tragic death led to significant changes in how child welfare cases were handled. The Springfield Police Department revised its policies to ensure better protection for vulnerable children. The Oregon DHS launched a public service campaign featuring Tesslyn's story, urging the community to be vigilant and proactive in reporting child abuse.

Remembering Tesslyn

Tesslyn's family in California buried her in Desert View Memorial Park in Victorville. Her gravestone reads, "Walks softly, an angel lies here." The community continues to mourn her loss, with family members expressing their grief and frustration over the missed opportunities to save her.

A Plea for Awareness

Tesslyn Elizabeth O'Cull's story is a somber reminder of the importance of vigilance and action in protecting our children. It is a call to every individual to speak up and intervene when witnessing signs of abuse. Only through collective awareness and responsibility can we prevent such tragedies from recurring.

This blog post not only recounts the tragic events surrounding Tesslyn's life and death but also serves as a poignant reminder of the critical need for community involvement in safeguarding children's welfare.