Bail Granted to Aunt of Deceased Toddler Tavia Michella Ximenes Da Costa

Suzana Da Costa Ximenes, the aunt of toddler Tavia Michella Ximenes Da Costa, has been released on bail, notwithstanding opposition from police. The child was discovered deceased in her bed on October 13, just two weeks prior to her second birthday. A post-mortem examination determined that Tavia’s death resulted from a brain injury sustained from blunt force trauma. Januaria Sarmento Ximenes, 29, the partner of Tavia’s mother, faces a murder charge. The child’s mother, Suzi Augusta Jacinta Da Costa, 21, has been charged with manslaughter. Both she and Tavia’s aunt, Suzana Da Costa Ximenes, are jointly accused of causing the child’s death and being aware that her death was due to an unlawful act. All three individuals, residing at Windmill Court, Dungannon in County Tyrone, are also facing accusations of wilful ill-treatment spanning the period from August 1 to October 13. Earlier court proceedings revealed that Mr Ximenes was not Tavia’s biological father but had commenced a relationship with Da Costa in June, subsequently moving in with her and her sister in August. Initially, bail was denied for all three individuals. However, on Wednesday, legal representatives for Suzana Da Costa Ximenes submitted a renewed bail application at Dungannon Magistrates’ Court, arguing that her charges were less severe than those of her co-accused and that an alternative residence was accessible. The detective maintained opposition to her release, expressing apprehension that she might abscond or tamper with witnesses, some of whom are members of her immediate family. The judge ruled that Ms Ximenes could be released to a police-approved residence and prohibited her from entering Dungannon. Furthermore, she will be electronically tagged, is forbidden from contacting any witnesses, must report to police three times per week, must surrender all travel documents, is to abstain from using social media, and is prohibited from possessing non-prescription drugs. The judge issued a warning that any violation of these conditions would result in her immediate return to custody. The next court mention for the case is scheduled for December 11.