In a shocking turn of events, a Perth couple has been found guilty of starving their teenage daughter, leading to severe malnutrition and developmental delays. The case has gripped Australia, shedding light on the harrowing neglect suffered by the young girl.
Teenager Weighed Just 27 Kilograms
Back in 2021, doctors were alarmed when they discovered that the 16-year-old girl weighed a mere 27 kilograms. Medical professionals warned that without urgent intervention, she was at risk of cardiac arrest and could potentially die. Despite these warnings, her parents resisted medical advice, refusing life-saving treatments for their daughter.
Parents Failed to Provide Basic Needs
The couple was accused of two major failings:
- Neglecting Adequate Nutrition: They did not provide their daughter with enough food, leading to her dangerously low weight and stunted growth.
- Stifling Her Development: They failed to support her emotional, social, and functional development, treating her as much younger than her actual age.
Prosecutor Jehna Winter highlighted that while the parents claimed to love their daughter, their actions told a different story. “Love is not always enough,” she stated, pointing out that they had infantilized her, attempting to keep her in a perpetual child-like state.
A Girl Kept from Growing Up
The court heard that although she was nearly 17, the teenager hadn’t started puberty. She was homeschooled and had limited interactions outside her family. Even her ballet classes were with girls much younger than her because her parents lied about her age. They dressed her in juvenile clothing and read her preschool-level stories while she sat on her mother’s lap.
Hospital staff observed that the girl had severe emotional and functional developmental delays. She lacked independence, which raised concerns about her vulnerability to future exploitation and abuse.
Parents Deny Wrongdoing
The mother’s lawyer, Michael Perrella, argued that his client believed her daughter was adequately nourished and didn’t require medical attention. He mentioned that short stature ran in the family and that a doctor once told the mother that being small didn’t necessarily mean being malnourished.
Similarly, the father’s lawyer, Oliver Paxman, emphasized that the parents “absolutely doted on” their daughter. He pointed out their attempts to bring what they considered healthier food options to the hospital, criticizing the processed meals provided.
A Forged Birth Certificate
Adding another layer to the troubling case, the father had earlier pleaded guilty to forging his daughter’s birth certificate. This forgery was intended to make her appear younger than she was, further supporting their attempt to keep her from growing up.
Court’s Decision and Aftermath
After a four-week trial and just a few hours of deliberation, the jury found both parents guilty on all charges. Judge Linda Black refused bail, citing the risk of further harm to the daughter. She expressed deep concern over the mother’s decision to attempt to call the victim as a witness, stating she’d “never ever come across a case” like it.
The mother wept as the verdict was read out, showcasing the emotional toll of the trial. The judge thanked the jury for their service, acknowledging the “harrowing” and “difficult” nature of the evidence presented.
Sentencing to Follow
The couple is set to be sentenced in January. Meanwhile, the case serves as a tragic reminder of the importance of safeguarding children’s wellbeing and the severe consequences when caregivers fail in their duties.
If you or someone you know is struggling or needs assistance, please reach out to:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Headspace: 1800 650 890
- Kids Helpline: 1800 551 800
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 46 36
- Butterfly Foundation: 1800 334 673