Melbourne Woman Jailed Over Slave Victim Threats
A 55-year-old Mount Waverley woman has been slapped with an extra two-and-a-half years behind bars. She was found guilty of trying to pervert the course of justice during an Australian Federal Police (AFP) probe into a shocking slavery case. The sentencing happened on 7 July 2023.
Horrific Slave Abuse Uncovered
Back in 2021, the woman and her husband were locked up after an AFP investigation revealed they kept a victim enslaved for eight brutal years. The couple forced her to live in filthy, nightmarish conditions while making her cook, clean, and care for their children. The victim’s health took a terrible hit, suffering malnourishment, diabetes, and gangrene in her feet and hands, which landed her in hospital.
Woman Tried to Silence Slave Victim
Charged with slavery offences in June 2016, the couple awaited trial. But in 2020, the woman attempted to sabotage justice. She threatened the victim, warning her not to testify in court. This blockade didn’t fly – the AFP slapped her with charges of attempting to pervert the course of justice under the Crimes Act 1914 (Cth).
Sentencing and AFP Warning
- In February 2020, charges for interference in the judicial process were filed.
- On 13 June 2023, the woman pleaded guilty.
- She was sentenced on 7 July 2023 to two years and six months additional jail time.
- This sentence overlaps 18 months with her existing eight-year slavery sentence.
- Her total sentence is now nine years, with parole possible by January 2026.
AFP Detective Superintendent Simone Butcher warned against interfering with justice. “The AFP is committed to protecting the integrity of our criminal system. Anyone who tries to obstruct justice will face serious consequences,” she said.
