A former civil servant has been sentenced to eight years in prison for the rape of his stepdaughter six years ago. The 61-year-old was found guilty of both rape and sexual assault against the victim, who was only 10 years old at the time of the incidents.
Court documents reveal that the abuse took place on April 13, 2018, when the defendant entered the victim’s bedroom after everyone else had gone to bed. During sentencing, it was noted that the former civil servant had used his retirement savings to invest in farming to support his family.
Justice Dane Tuiqereqere highlighted the significant role of a stepfather in a child’s life, stating, “A stepfather stands in the shoes of a child’s biological father, occupying a significantly important role and responsibility in the development of a child.” He expressed that the accused has taken away the victim’s innocence and childhood and emphasized the long-term psychological effects this crime could have on her, particularly regarding her ability to trust men.
In addition to the prison sentence, Justice Tuiqereqere imposed a domestic violence restraining order against the offender, who will serve a non-parole period of six years, seven months, and 25 days.