Eastleigh Nurse Jailed for Neglecting Teenagers in Her Care

A 30 year old community nurse from Eastleigh has been jailed for 15 months after admitting to the ill-treatment and wilful neglect of three teenagers in her care.

Emma Sinclair, of Desborough Road, committed the offences on 6 February 2024 while working as a community nurse. She pleaded guilty to three counts of ill-treatment and neglect when she appeared at Southampton Magistrates’ Court on 9 September, before being sentenced at Southampton Crown Court today, Monday 3 November.

In addition to her prison sentence, Sinclair has been handed a ten-year restraining order preventing her from contacting the victims.

Following the sentencing, Police Staff Investigator Rebecca Stevens, from the Child Abuse Investigation Team (West), praised the courage of the victims and their families.

“I am pleased for the young victims and their families that justice has now been served and that they can now attempt to move on with their lives, knowing that Sinclair is in prison and can no longer harm any other vulnerable child,” PSI Stevens said.

“Their bravery and support throughout our investigation has been integral to achieving the outcome we have today. Sinclair abused her trusted position in the most serious way and has now been held accountable for her actions.

“While I know today’s sentencing won’t rid the victims and family members of the memories of what happened to them, I truly hope the justice handed down is of some comfort to them as they look to the future.”

During sentencing, His Honour Judge Peters condemned Sinclair’s behaviour, saying: “You have completely failed in your work as a trained nurse in the care of these children. You have lacked genuine remorse and have made numerous attempts to avoid responsibility for what happened. This court cannot overlook the seriousness of this matter.”

Police are urging anyone who is a victim of child abuse, or who has concerns about the welfare of a child, to report it. Officers stress that even if you are not certain, any information could help protect a vulnerable child.

For more information on how to report concerns, visit the Hampshire & Isle of Wight Constabulary website.