Need to break abuse cycle says Rape Crisis

2:00 PM

The case of a Hamilton woman who bashed her six-year-old child to death shows how sexual abuse can become cyclical, Rape Crisis said today.

Belinda Edmonds was sentenced to five years jail after pleading guilty to the manslaughter of her daughter Mereana Te Mana Motuhake.

It has been revealed Mereana was the product of rape.

Rape Crisis spokeswoman Claire Benson says the case highlights the need for survivors of sexual abuse to be counselled and supported so they don't go on to become offenders or continue the cycle of abuse.

However she said the fact Belinda Edmonds was raped, is no excuse for what she inflicted upon her daughter.

- IRN