16-Year-Old Girl in Aruba Sentenced for Attempted Murder

A 16-year-old girl, identified as S.A.A.H., was sentenced by the Court on Thursday morning after being found guilty of attempted murder and other offenses. The judge confirmed the prosecutor’s demand of 180 days of detention, of which 160 days are conditional, with a two-year probation period. During probation, she must remain under the guidance of Reclassering, receive psychological and psychiatric support, and undergo rehabilitation through Fundacion Hunto to address drug use. The Court also approved a compensation claim of 10,000 florins from the victim’s parents.

The case stemmed from several incidents in 2024. In late September, the girl attempted to attack a young man with a knife, broke into his residence by smashing a glass door, and stole his smartphone. More seriously, in October 2024, she stabbed a young woman three times in a public area of Playa, causing life-threatening injuries that required emergency surgery after one stab wound collapsed the victim’s lung.

Court records showed the girl carried a knife regularly, partly due to past trauma and feelings of insecurity. During hearings, she admitted her actions but said she often acted out of anger, fear, and lack of control. Reports from psychologists and psychiatrists indicated that she suffers from mental health challenges, including anger management issues and possible autism, which influenced her behavior.

While the judge recognized these mental health concerns and reduced her accountability, he found enough evidence of attempted murder and ordered juvenile sentencing. She will remain under supervision, must stop using drugs, undergo regular testing, and follow treatment programs. The knife used in the crime has been confiscated.

The Court emphasized the seriousness of the attack, noting that the victim’s life was in danger, and expressed hope that with proper rehabilitation, such an incident will not happen again.

Photo Credits : https://diario.aw/categories/noticia/hudicial/mucha-muher-di-16-ana-condena-den-corte-pa-intento-di-mata