Neglect Charges Filed in Decade-Old Child Death Case in Kaikohe

Alestra Kepa-Hati was just four years old when she died in Kaikohe in 2015. A decade later, Northland Police have finally taken action, arresting and charging two individuals with neglect in connection with her tragic death.

The case, which has been under investigation for over ten years, has now reached a critical point. Alestra suffered multiple severe injuries in the weeks leading up to her death, including a broken arm, broken pelvis, and two separate head injuries. These injuries, according to police, were the result of prolonged neglect and abuse.

Detective Sergeant Natalie Syddall from the Northland Criminal Investigation Branch confirmed that a 60-year-old man and a 56-year-old woman have been arrested and charged with four counts of neglect of a child under 18. Three of these charges pertain specifically to Alestra, while the fourth relates to another child, highlighting the broader context of potential systemic neglect.

The accused are set to appear in Kaikohe District Court tomorrow. Their appearance marks a significant development in a case that has long been a source of community concern and frustration.

For the family of Alestra, this moment is both a long-awaited step toward justice and a painful reminder of the loss they have endured. Advocates for children’s rights have welcomed the charges, calling it a necessary step in holding individuals accountable for the suffering of vulnerable children.

While the legal process will take time, the charges underscore the importance of timely intervention and the need for continued support for families in crisis. The case has also reignited discussions about the effectiveness of child protection systems in New Zealand and the role of law enforcement in addressing historical neglect cases.

The community of Kaikohe, and indeed the wider Northland region, is watching closely as this case moves forward. It is a reminder that justice, though delayed, can still be served—and that no child’s suffering should be forgotten, no matter how many years have passed.