The Johannesburg High Court has resumed sentencing proceedings for 25-year-old former preschool teacher Amber Lee Hughes, who was convicted last year of the murder and rape of her four-year-old stepdaughter and student, Nada-Jane Challita.
Hughes returned to the dock on Thursday as prosecutors and defense lawyers presented final arguments in mitigation and aggravation of sentence.
Judge Richard Mkhabela found Hughes guilty in August 2025 of premeditated murder and rape, crimes that each carry a prescribed minimum sentence of life imprisonment.
The case stems from a January 2023 incident in which Hughes was alleged to have drowned the toddler in a bathtub following a heated dispute with the child’s father over alleged infidelity.
The court has heard emotional testimony from the victim’s family, including the father, who described the conviction as both a relief and a source of enduring pain.
Judge Mkhabela is now tasked with determining whether any substantial or compelling circumstances exist to deviate from the mandatory life sentences.
Hughes remains in custody as the proceedings edge toward a final judgment.
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