Source: New Zealand Police (District News)
Please attribute to Detective Sergeant Darren Pritchard:
Police acknowledge the sentencing of 28-year-old David Sciascia in relation to the death of his seven-month-old daughter Hineteaorangi Maraki.
Sciascia was sentenced today in the Hastings District Court to four years and three months in prison on charges of assaults child, assault person with blunt instrument and wounds with intent to injure/reckless disregard.
Police, particularly our officers who investigated the case, are deeply sadden by Hineteaorangi’s death and the extent of her horrific injuries.
While nothing will be able to bring Hineteaorangi back, we are hopeful the arrest and prosecution of Sciascia provides some comfort for her loved ones.
No child should be the victim of violence, and the horrendous abuse inflicted on children by those who are supposed to protect them is unforgivable.
Police takes reports of child abuse incredibly seriously and we will continue to target and prosecute people who offend against our most vulnerable community members.
We acknowledge the deep grief felt by her family and we continue to provide support to them as best we can as they come to terms with the sentencing.
Police is committed to preventing harm within whanau and reducing the impacts of family harm.
Preventing and effectively responding to family harm is one of the greatest opportunities to improve the well-being and safety of our communities.
We acknowledge it can be difficult to reach out for help. If you are a victim of family harm or in a relationship that makes you fearful about your own or anyone else’s safety, seek help as soon as possible, you have the right to be safe.
You can contact Police on 111. There are also a number of other groups that are able to assist if you or someone you know feels unsafe.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre
