Lawyer for abuse accused objects to media's use of 'torture'

File photo / APN

The West Auckland parents accusing of abusing their nine-year-old girl have appeared in court today.

Both parents, who have name suppression to protect the identity of their daughter, were at the Waitakere District Court this morning. They face a total of 36 charges, ranging from assault with a weapon to cruelty and neglect charges.

The father of the girl entered not guilty pleas while the mother's plea inquiry was adjourned to next month as an additional lawyer has been assigned to represent her.

Counsel for the accused Jo Wickliffe said she was concerned about media coverage and the possible effects that could have on a fair trial. Ms Wickliffe objected to media reports updating the condition of the nine-year-old girl and the use of the word 'torture'.

The woman, 30, and her 32-year-old husband were arrested after the girl was found hiding in a wardrobe last month, with injuries to nearly every part of her body. She was starving, dehydrated and anaemic from internal bleeding.

The girl has since been placed with a foster family.