Collie Parents Enter Not Guilty Pleas in Manslaughter Case Over Infant's Death
A South West couple from Collie, accused of neglecting their unwell baby boy before his tragic death, have finally entered pleas in court, nearly four years after the incident occurred. Maraea Te Oke Mae Hunia and Jahley Poata, both 34 years old, pleaded not guilty to charges of failing to provide proper medical care for their six-month-old son in 2022.
Court Proceedings and Upgraded Charges
The pair appeared at Stirling Gardens Magistrates Court on Wednesday, where they had their bail renewed and are now set to face trial in the Supreme Court on April 20. Initially charged with failing to protect a child from harm, the allegations were upgraded to manslaughter in December, marking a significant escalation in the legal proceedings.
Authorities allege that the couple had been informed about their son's serious health condition four months prior to his death at Perth Children's Hospital in October 2022. Despite this, the baby, also named Jahley, passed away, leading to the parents' arrest and brief time in custody before securing bail.
Social Media Activity Amidst Allegations
Ms. Hunia, described as an aspiring influencer and mother-of-eight, has been active on social media platforms such as TikTok during the period authorities claim her infant son was neglected. Her posts included videos of herself dancing to songs by artists like Beyonce and Nicki Minaj, along with hashtags such as #Momof8 and #blessed.
In court, she was observed reapplying lip gloss and playing with her hair while waiting to re-sign bail papers. She also clutched a picture of her son, highlighting the personal tragedy amidst the legal battle. Just days before the baby's birth, she announced becoming a market partner for the beauty brand Monat, showcasing her entrepreneurial pursuits.
Ongoing Legal Process and Community Impact
The illness of the baby has not been disclosed in court proceedings, adding to the mystery and gravity of the case. The couple did not speak to media outside court, maintaining a low profile as they prepare for the upcoming trial. This case has drawn significant attention in the Collie community and beyond, raising questions about parental responsibilities and child welfare.
As the trial approaches, legal experts anticipate a thorough examination of the evidence, including medical records and social media content, to determine the extent of neglect and accountability. The outcome could set precedents for similar cases involving child protection and manslaughter charges in Western Australia.
