Amanda Maria Souza de Oliveira, 37, was convicted of fraud and false identity on Thursday in Brazil after posing as a child to live with a foster family for 14 months. Officials stated that Oliveira presented herself as a 12-year-old girl, claiming she had fled abuse.
Oliveira, who admitted to creating a false identity and age, had been living under this deception for approximately 15 years. According to reports, she maintained a childlike voice and even claimed to have taken hormones to appear older.
Her legal defense argued that the scheme was a survival mechanism for a vulnerable individual, emphasizing that there were no allegations of financial gain, robbery, or theft. One of her lawyers stated that the elements of fraud might not have been established.
Oliveira reportedly told police that she deceived people and lied but did not intend to scam anyone. She expressed a desire to experience the care and love she felt she lacked during her own childhood.
She was sentenced to one year, six months, and 10 days in prison, along with four months and 18 days of detention. Her legal team plans to pursue appeals in higher courts.