9News Perth special ‘Jailed In Japan’ tells the story of jailed West Australian grandmother

The 9News Perth special ‘Jailed in Japan’ gives viewers exclusive access to the story of Donna Nelson, the West Australian grandmother sentenced to six years in a Japanese prison after being convicted of importing two kilograms of methamphetamine.

The 40-minute special, this Sunday, January 26, at 9.30pm on Channel 9 and 9Now, goes beyond the headlines with an intimate and powerful portrayal of a grandmother trapped in a nightmare.

Jailed in Japan delves into Nelson’s claim that she was manipulated by a Nigerian fraudster she met online, which is at the heart of this emotional narrative.

With insight from 9News Perth’s News Director, Michael Genovese, and the senior reporter who covered the story, Jamie Freestone, the special paints a vivid picture of a well-loved woman who says she has been caught in a tragic scam.

After spending more than two years behind bars in Chiba prison, 40km east of Tokyo, Donna’s case has raised questions about the harsh and often inhumane treatment of foreign detainees in Japan’s notoriously strict justice system. Isolated for 23 hours a day, allowed only 30 minutes of exercise, and showering just once every three days, Donna’s plight spotlights a story that has made headlines across the country.

The special reveals the efforts her family has made to support her throughout the ordeal as Donna’s relatives talk of the emotional strain and their faith in her innocence.

9News also offers unprecedented access to the Japanese court hearings, giving viewers an inside look at Nelson’s legal battle, as well as interviews with her defence team who expose the prosecution’s flaws in the case.

Michael Genovese said: “Judges say she was part of a conspiracy, her daughters say she’s telling the truth. Either way it’s a hell of a story.”

Jamie Freestone agreed, saying: “Jailed in Japan takes viewers on a journey that is far from over – leaving them wondering why a loving grandmother and community leader would risk it all for nothing.”