A Brazilian woman, Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira, has been convicted of fraud and false identity after successfully posing as a child and living with a foster family for 14 months. Oliveira, who is 37 years old, was found guilty by the Court of Justice of Santa Catarina in Brazil.
Oliveira had adopted a high-pitched, childlike voice and fabricated a story of fleeing abuse to gain the trust of the family. She maintained the deception for over a year before her scheme was uncovered. During the course of the fraud, she reportedly told people she had taken hormones to appear older.
She was sentenced to one year, six months, and 10 days in prison, with an additional four months and 18 days of detention. One of Oliveira's lawyers, Lúcio Sousa, stated that her actions were a means of survival, highlighting her vulnerability and a history of homelessness. Sousa also noted that there were no allegations of financial gain, robbery, or theft, suggesting that the elements of fraud might not be fully established.
Oliveira admitted to creating a false identity and lying, but claimed she did not intend to scam anyone. She expressed a desire to experience the love and care she felt she lacked as a child. Her legal team indicated they would pursue appeals in higher courts.