Watch: Child killer Amber Lee Hughes sentencing postponed
Nada-Jane’s father stormed out of court after witnesses were not called in the ongoing sentencing of Amber Lee Hughes.
The sentencing proceedings against Amber Lee Hughes, who is charged with the premeditated murder and rape of four-year-old Nada-Jane Challita, were halted in the Johannesburg High Court today.
Southern Courier reports that Hughes appeared in court dressed in black as the state was expected to begin calling witnesses.
The case relates to the tragic killing of Nada-Jane at her Mulbarton home, south of Johannesburg, in January 2023. This marks yet another delay in the sentencing phase of the high-profile case.
Court unable to proceed
Despite expectations that witnesses would be called today, logistical issues prevented the matter from moving forward.
State advocate Rolene Barnard told the court: “I understand that due to logistical issues, the court is not able to tend to this matter today.”
Judge Richard Mkhabela confirmed that a new date had been agreed upon by both parties, with the matter now set for April 15.
Father expected to testify
It was expected that Elie Chalita, the father of the deceased, would be the first witness called by the state.
Following the postponement, Chalita expressed frustration with the ongoing delays, saying the process was ‘a waste of time’ before leaving the courtroom.
Context from previous proceedings
In earlier court appearances, Hughes confessed to the murder. She gave detailed testimony about the events surrounding Nada-Jane’s death, including how she drowned the child, and apologised to the family in court.
During cross-examination, Hughes faced tough questioning from the state about contradictions in her story, messages she had sent, and her mental state at the time.
She also discussed the impact of the child’s birthday on her statements and her claims regarding child welfare issues.
These earlier proceedings provided insight into Hughes’ account and the state’s evidence, setting the stage for the sentencing phase of the trial.
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Read original story on www.citizen.co.za
