Charge now murder over baby's death

James Hemana is charged with the murder of his girlfriend's baby, six-month-old Cezar Taylor. Photo / Supplied

A man arrested after the death of his girlfriend's six-month-old baby in July has now been charged with murder.

James Hemana, 30, was initially charged with assault following the death of Cezar Taylor, the son of his girlfriend, after Cezar died in Auckland's Starship Hospital on July 28.

But he faced one charge of murder and two of manslaughter through failing a legal duty when he reappeared in Manukau District Court today, a court spokeswoman told NZPA.

Cezar, who lived in Mangere East in south Auckland, had been admitted to hospital with severe injuries.

Hemana will reappear in court next month.

- NZPA