Whangārei Couple Faces 35 Charges of Child Abuse in Court

A couple from Whangārei is facing serious allegations of child abuse, with a total of 35 charges filed against them. The case stems from the distressing experience of a young girl who sought refuge at a friend’s home, prompting a police investigation that has now led to a trial in the Whangārei District Court.

The couple, who had served as registered caregivers under Oranga Tamariki, has been accused of various forms of violence and cruelty towards children placed in their care since at least 2012. Four key witnesses are expected to testify regarding their experiences in the household, with particular focus on the alleged treatment of two children, Sally and Mary.

Sally’s ordeal began when she ran away from home, arriving at a friend’s residence feeling cold, hungry, and with a sore arm. The police were alerted by a concerned mother, leading to the investigation. Sally reported that she had been physically abused by the couple, whom she referred to as Mum and Dad. She claimed she had been hit with a stick, burned with a lighter, and subjected to slapping and punching.

A significant incident highlighted during the trial involved a cellphone Sally discovered at a local store. After being advised to report it to security, she took it home instead. When her parents became suspicious, an argument ensued. Sally alleged that during this confrontation, her mother struck her, and when the phone fell out, she was thrown into a corner. Distressed, Sally fled, catching a bus and hitchhiking to her friend’s house across town.

On the night she arrived, the friend’s mother recalled inviting Sally inside, noting her lack of clothing and the cold weather. The woman testified, “That’s when the story unfolded that she had run away from home. She had said they had pulled her hair, which indicated something not nice had happened.” During their conversation, Sally revealed she had not eaten for two days, attributing this to her mother frequently calling her fat, making her uncomfortable about food.

Despite Sally pleading with her not to, the friend’s mother contacted the police, sharing Sally’s disclosures with an officer. “She said they took turns restraining her and punched and hit her in the head and back,” the witness stated. Although there were no visible injuries at the time, Sally was seen clutching her arm and reported pain.

Testifying last week, a doctor from Whangārei Hospital confirmed that Sally was experiencing pain in her left arm and abdomen after the alleged assault. While the examination revealed no bruises, the doctor noted findings indicative of previous trauma, including a scar on her knee, which Sally claimed was from a burn inflicted by her caregivers.

Mary, another child who had been under the couple’s care, has also provided testimony regarding her treatment. She detailed experiencing physical assaults and claimed the couple had restrained her and forced chilli into her mouth. Mary further alleged that she had been confined to a room without food for three days.

As the trial progresses, three additional children are expected to testify about their observations within the household, potentially extending the proceedings to four weeks, one week longer than initially planned.

Judge Greg Davis temporarily closed the courtroom to accommodate the children’s testimonies but later reopened it to the public. The gravity of these allegations underscores the importance of protecting vulnerable children and ensuring accountability for those entrusted with their care.

This case serves as a reminder of the critical need for vigilance and support for children in care. Resources are available for those who may need assistance. If you or someone you know is in need of help, please reach out to local support services or helplines for guidance.