Woman sentenced to a year in prison for wilful neglect

Today (Tuesday 7 May 2024), the Royal Court sentenced Joana Da Mata Viana Martins, aged 42, to 12 months in prison for two counts of ill-treatment/wilful neglect of a vulnerable 18-year-old female who was in her care.

The charges encompassed deeply concerning behaviour, including mocking the victim, shouting in her face, purposefully removing and withholding the victim's wheelchair, and physically intimidating the vulnerable individual when she was most in need.

This is an appalling crime, whereby Joana Martins, abused the victim who was a vulnerable young female who relied on her for care.

The States of Jersey Police remain committed to protecting the rights and dignity of all individuals, especially the most vulnerable members of our community. This conviction serves as a testament to our unwavering dedication to upholding the law and ensuring that justice is served.