A 22-year-old New Zealander sentenced to 4.5 years for raping his 8-year-old cousin from 2021 to 2024.

A 22-year-old Tauranga man was sentenced to four and a half years in prison for repeatedly raping and indecently assaulting his 8-year-old cousin from 2021 to April 2024, with abuse occurring in the girl’s bedroom, during showers, and while family members were nearby. He pleaded guilty to three counts of rape and four counts of indecent assault. Judge Melinda Mason reduced an eight-and-a-half-year starting sentence by 20% for his guilty plea, youth, and a psychological report indicating mild cognitive impairment and possible fetal alcohol syndrome. The victim’s mother read an impact statement expressing grief and anger over the betrayal of trust. The Crown accepted the sentence, noting the Parole Board would assess future risk.