Please attribute to Detective Senior Sergeant Ross Ellwood:
Police note today’s sentencing at the Auckland High Court in relation to the death of 18-month-old Imogen Maatafi who drowned in a paddling pool in Manurewa on Christmas Day 2014.
Imogen’s death was a tragedy and a significant loss for her family. We continue to offer our deepest sympathies.
The decision to charge in this situation was made after a lengthy investigation and legal opinion.
Detective Senior Sergeant Ross Ellwood says moving into summer we must recognise that swimming pools and young children can be a dangerous mix and this is no different for paddling pools.
“We urge anyone buying a paddling pool for their children to ensure they are adhering to swimming pool laws around pool fencing and safety. Please make sure your pool is safe and compliant and ensure that children are supervised around water at all times.”
Police want all members of our community to have a safe and enjoyable summer.
For further information please visit: www.watersafety.org.nz
ENDS
Shelley Nahr/NZ Police
