Woman, 30, sentenced to 15 months in prison for Southampton child abuse offences

A 30-year-old woman from Eastleigh has been jailed for 15 months after admitting to three counts of ill-treatment and wilful neglect of three teenagers in her care.

Emma Sinclair, of Desborough Road, was a community nurse at the time of the offences, which occurred on Tuesday 6 February 2024.

Sinclair pleaded guilty to the offences when she appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday 9 September.

She was sentenced when she appeared at Southampton Crown Court today (Monday 3 November).

In addition to the time she will now spend behind bars, Sinclair has also been made subject to a ten-year restraining order, preventing contact with the victims.

Speaking after sentencing, Police Staff Investigator, Rebecca Stevens, who led the investigation, praised the victims and their families for their courage throughout.

PSI Stevens, of the Child Abuse Investigation Team (West), said: “I am pleased for the young victims and their families that justice has now been served and that they can now attempt to move on with their lives, knowing that

Sinclair is in prison and can no longer harm any other vulnerable child.

“Their bravery and support throughout our investigation has been integral to achieving the outcome we have today.

“Sinclair abused her trusted position in the most serious way and has now been held accountable for her actions.

“While I know today’s sentencing won’t rid the victims and family members of the memories of what happened to them, I truly hope the justice handed down is of some comfort to them as they look to the future.”

Addressing Sinclair during sentencing, His Honour Judge Peters, said: “You have completely failed in your work as a trained nurse in the care of these children.

“You have lacked genuine remorse and have made numerous attempts to avoid responsibility for what had happened. This court cannot overlook the seriousness of this matter.”

If you are a victim of child abuse, or worried for the safety or wellbeing of a child, please follow the below link for the different ways you can get in touch with us.

Even if you’re not 100 per cent sure, please report your concerns. Your information could help our trained officers and staff protect the child.

How to report possible child abuse | Hampshire and Isle of Wight Constabulary