Shortcut: The Romance Scam That Sent Donna Nelson to a Japanese Prison

This is a "Shortcut" episode. It’s a shortened version of this week’s more detailed full episode, which is also available on our feed.

In 2023, Perth grandmother Donna Nelson unknowingly carried almost 2 kilograms of methamphetamine into Japan after being deceived in a romance scam, and was sentenced to six years in prison.

Japanese authorities acknowledged she was manipulated but still held her responsible. Two of her five daughters, Ashlee Charles and Kristal Hilaire, join us to share their mother's story and the complexities of navigating the Japanese legal system.

You can help support Donna Nelson's family by visiting this link.

You can follow updates on Donna Nelson's case on Instagram and Facebook @BringDonnaHome

We're excited to announce the release of Sherele Moody's new podcast, She Matters. Click here to listen on Apple Podcasts, or find it wherever you get your podcasts.

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Do you have information regarding any of the cases discussed on this podcast? Please report it on the Crime Stoppers website or by calling 1800 333 000.

For Support: 

Lifeline  on 13 11 14

13 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support phone line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)

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Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380

CREDITS:

Host: Meshel Laurie

Guests: Ashlee Charles and Kristal Hilaire

Executive Producer/Editor: Matthew Tankard

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