State To Cross-Examine Convicted Killer Amber Lee Hughes In Nada Jane Challita Sentencing Hearing

The State is expected to cross-examine convicted murderer Amber Lee Hughes as sentencing proceedings continue in the Johannesburg High Court.

Hughes, 26, was found guilty in 2023 of murdering and sexually assaulting four-year-old Nada Jane Challita, the daughter of her former boyfriend.

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She is set to return to the witness stand for a second time as part of her mitigation of sentence. Thursday marks the fourth consecutive day of sentencing proceedings.

On Wednesday, the court heard a detailed account of the events leading up to the child’s death.

Johannesburg High Court Sentencing Proceedings Continue

During her testimony, Hughes told the court she had reached a breaking point, which she attributed to alleged abuse and infidelity by Elie Challita.

She described her state of mind at the time, claiming she believed there would be no future for the child if she left the relationship.

“At that moment, I thought that the only possible way out of everything was to take Nada’s life and my own. I felt like Nada wouldn’t have a future without me. She would be neglected and she wouldn’t progress without me. I thought the only way to save Nada was by taking her life.”

The State is expected to challenge her version of events during cross-examination.

Father of Nada Jane Challita Expected to Testify

The court has also been informed that the child’s father is expected to take the stand later in the proceedings.

Sentencing arguments are continuing as the High Court weighs the circumstances presented in mitigation.

Further developments are expected as the matter unfolds.