She is scheduled to appear at Isleworth Crown Court on March 19, 2025, as part of the ongoing legal proceedings.

Nix appeared at Uxbridge Magistrates' Court, where she confirmed her identity and was released on bail with conditions, including surrendering her passports.

At the time of the alleged incidents, Nix was between 16 and 19 years old.

The case highlights the long-lasting impact of unresolved crimes and the efforts of law enforcement to bring justice, even after many years.

Janice Nix, a 66-year-old woman, has been charged with manslaughter in connection with the 1978 death of five-year-old Andrea Bernard in Thornton Heath, south London.

The investigation into Andrea's death was reopened by the Metropolitan Police's Cold Case Homicide Team in September 2022, following a report by Desmond Bernard.

The tragic circumstances surrounding Andrea's death have remained unresolved for decades, culminating in the recent charges against Nix.

This renewed investigation led to the charges against Nix, who was known to Andrea.

Andrea Bernard suffered severe burns after being forced into a scalding hot bath and ultimately died on July 13, 1978, five weeks after the incident.

During the court hearing, Nix wore a navy blue hoodie and spoke only to confirm her name, age, and address.

Nix, who works in the probation sector and is an author, received the Probation Service’s Diversity and Engagement Award in 2015.

Initially, Andrea was hospitalized in Croydon before being transferred to a specialist burns unit in East Grinstead.