The parents of a six-month-old boy from Collie, whose son died after being diagnosed with a serious medical condition, are now facing manslaughter charges in a Western Australian court.
Charges Upgraded in Stirling Gardens Court
Maraea Te Oke Mae Hunia and Jahley Poata, both 34 years old, appeared in Stirling Gardens Magistrate's Court on Wednesday, 17 December 2025. The couple, who are parents to eight children, were formally charged with the manslaughter of their infant son, also named Jahley.
This marks a significant escalation in the case, as two previous charges of failing to provide proper medical care were withdrawn by prosecutors. Registrar Acacia Hosking presided over the hearing, granting the pair bail on the new, more serious charge. They are ordered to return to court on 18 February to enter a plea.
A Timeline of Tragedy and Alleged Neglect
The court heard allegations that the baby boy was diagnosed with a serious health condition in June 2022. Despite this diagnosis, it is alleged the necessary care was not provided. The infant passed away four months later in Perth Children's Hospital in October 2022.
The couple spent time in custody following their initial arrest in October 2022 before being released on bail. Their criminal case has been progressing through the legal system for the past three years.
Social Media Presence Contrasts with Allegations
In the period authorities allege their son was being neglected, Maraea Te Oke Mae Hunia maintained an active presence on social media platform TikTok under the username maraea.huniaxo. Her posts presented a life far removed from the allegations now before the court.
Just three days before her son's birth in early March 2022, she announced becoming a "business owner" as a market partner for beauty brand Monat. Following the birth, she used hashtags like #Protect, #Love, and #Care.
In the months between her son falling ill and her arrest, her TikTok feed featured clips of her dancing to Beyonce, reciting lyrics, and describing her life as #blessed. She identified online as a #Momof8, #PregnantModel, and #TwerkQueen.
The case will continue in February 2025, when the Collie parents must formally respond to the manslaughter charges related to the death of their six-month-old son.
