Man accused of killing girl, 5, back in court

Sahara Baker-Koro. Photo / Supplied

The man accused of sexually violating and killing a five-year-old Napier girl just before Christmas has been further remanded in custody.

Numerous police and security staff were on hand both inside and outside Napier District Court this morning to prevent a repeat of the chaos that erupted during Kerry Charles Ratana's first appearance in the court several weeks ago.

The 24-year-old food processor, already charged with the sexual violation of Sahara Baker-Koro at her home in Riverbend Road between December 18 and 21, was yesterday also charged with her manslaughter.

Ratana stood with head bowed in the dock today as Judge Bridget Mackintosh remanded him to April 7 for a post-commital hearing.

The courtroom was quiet and orderly, in stark contrast to the scene during Ratana's first appearance last month when court proceedings were brought to a standstill as a crowd of Sahara's weeping relatives began swearing, screaming and threatening him.

Guards swiftly removed Ratana from the courtroom and police surrounded the public gallery to contain the uproar.

Sahara was found dead in bed on the morning of December 21, at the home Ratana had been sharing with her mother. Violence in the couple's relationship had already brought the family to the attention of welfare agencies.

- NZPA