15 years' jail for killing 8-month-old son

Charlie Lackner (pictured) admitted killing 8-month-old Cassius Takiari.

A Hamilton father failed in his obligation to protect his son when he beat the eight-month-old boy so hard that he died, a judge has said.

Charlie Lackner was today sentenced to life imprisonment with a minimum non-parole period of 15 years in the High Court at Hamilton today.

He was convicted of killing Cassius Takiari who died from serious head injuries in Auckland's Starship Hospital last year.

Justice Geoffrey Venning said Lackner failed to protect his son and inflicted fatal injuries - and that had immeasurable consequences.

"It is one of the most fundamental instincts a human being has to protect their children," he said.

"You not only failed to protect Cassius in this case, but you are the one who inflicted the fatal damage on him."

On June 15 last year Lackner was home looking after his children, including Cassius.

When his partner returned home from work she saw Lackner lying on the couch with Cassius unresponsive lying on top of him.

When she asked Lacker what had happened he replied: "I slapped him I'm sorry", Justice Venning said.

The police were called and Cassius was taken to Waikato District Hospital where he was treated for a significant brain injury.

He was subsequently transferred that evening to Starship Hospital.

Cassius was found to have significant swelling and bleeding on and around the brain, bruising to both sides of his forehead, and two detached retinas, Justice Venning said.

The pathologist's report found the injuries were caused by blunt force trauma.

"The damage and swelling to his brain as a result of the injuries you inflicted on Cassius caused brain damage that could not be reversed or treated. It caused his death," Justice Venning said.

There were emotional scenes in the court as Lackner was sentenced.

Tears streamed down Lackner's face as he listened to a heartbreaking victim impact statement read out by his former partner and the mother of the eight month old he murdered.

The mother said her son's death tore her family apart.

Liza Tauira said she suffered from post traumatic stress disorder following Cassius's death and her two other children were taken by Child Youth and Family.

She said it had a huge impact on her and her children's lives as they had lost not only a brother but a father as well.

The public gallery was packed full of supporters and family who yelled "we love you cuz" as Lackner was led away from the dock.

Police acting detective inspector Ross Patterson, said he hoped the sentencing would bring the family some closure, and thanked families from both sides, local residents and neighbours helping with the inquiry.

He said people who were involved in domestic violence or family pressure should seek help before things get too much.

"There are a raft of organisations, websites and materials available to assist people, the first key step is asking for help."

- additional reporting NewsTalk ZB