Australian True Crime

The Romance Scam That Sent Donna Nelson to a Japanese Prison

09 Nov 2025

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Description

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 @BringDonnaHomeWe'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.Click here to subscribe to ATC Plus on Apple Podcasts and access all ATC episodes early and ad-free, as well as exclusive bonus episodes. Join our Facebook Group here.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 1413 YARN on 13 92 76 (24/7 crisis support phone line for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples)1800RESPECT: 1800 737 732Blue Knot Helpline: 1300 657 380CREDITS:Host: Meshel LaurieGuests: Ashlee Charles and Kristal HilaireExecutive Producer/Editor: Matthew TankardThis episode contains extra content from The ABC and Channel 7.GET IN TOUCH:https://www.australiantruecrimethepodcast.com/Follow the show on Instagram @australiantruecrimepodcast and Facebook Send us a question to have played on the show by recording a voice message here.Email the show at [email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Australian True Crime

The Romance Scam That Sent Donna Nelson to a Japanese Prison

This episode hasn't been transcribed yet

Other episodes from Australian True Crime

How Serious Are Australia's Neo-Nazis?

Shortcut: How Serious Are Australia's Neo-Nazis?

True Crime Tonight: Full Show (21/06/26)

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Shortcut: The Woman Who Names the Unknown - ATC International

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