Family of nine-year-old Chantel Crump says they remain determined to see justice served.

They warned that dropping the case would send a troubling signal about Antigua and Barbuda’s justice system.

The comments followed arguments in court by Angela Mejia’s lawyer, Wendel Alexander. Mejia faces charges in Crump’s murder.

During Wednesday’s hearing, Alexander asked the court to dismiss the case for want of prosecution. He argued repeated delays hurt his client.

He said Mejia has stayed on remand at His Majesty’s Prison since her arrest. Therefore, authorities should release her or move the case quickly to trial.

Alexander added that repeated adjournments have harmed Mejia. He also stressed that public scrutiny increased pressure on his client.

Chief Magistrate Ngaio Emanuel denied the dismissal request. However, she allowed a final adjournment and scheduled the next hearing for March 18.

Prosecutors told the court that the Director of Public Prosecutions currently holds the case file. Consequently, they cannot advance the matter until it is reviewed.

Chantel, a Five Islands Primary School student, disappeared in mid-March 2025. Witnesses reported a woman picked her up near her home.

Authorities discovered her body days later in the Weatherhills area, sparking national outrage.

Police arrested Mejia shortly afterward, and she has remained in custody. Meanwhile, the court will decide next month whether to send the case to the High Court.

No family members attended Wednesday’s hearing. Nevertheless, they continue to push for accountability and justice for their child.

The case draws strong public attention, highlighting concerns about delays and defendants’ treatment while awaiting trial.

Observers say the next court date may determine how fast the legal process moves. Meanwhile, the Crump family remains determined to see justice done.