A magistrate is expected to decide today whether the case against a woman accused of killing nine-year-old Chantel Crump will proceed to trial.

Angela Mejia has been on remand at His Majesty’s Prison for nearly a year following her arrest. The matter returns to the St John’s Magistrates Court after multiple delays.

At the previous hearing, defence attorney Wendel Alexander urged the court to either move the case forward or dismiss it, arguing that his client should not remain in custody while prosecutors continue their preparations.

The case has been adjourned five times, prompting the defence to file for dismissal on the grounds of lack of prosecution. A second bail application was also denied.

Chief Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel granted a final adjournment last month, noting that the case file was still under review by the Director of Public Prosecutions.

During today’s hearing, the court is expected to hold a committal proceeding to determine whether there is enough evidence for the matter to be sent to the High Court.

If insufficient evidence is presented, the case could be dismissed and Mejia released.

Chantel Crump’s body was found in the Weatherills area on 15 March 2025. Police said she had been taken by a woman in a vehicle days earlier.

The case has attracted significant public attention, with today’s ruling likely to determine whether it proceeds to trial or is brought to an end.