A teenage boy from the Manawatū-Whanganui region died after his parents neglected to seek medical treatment for him during six days of illness. Initially presenting with a cough, the boy's condition worsened until he was taken to the hospital, where he was diagnosed with a lung infection that led to cardiac arrest and stroke. In the Whanganui District Court, the parents were convicted of child neglect, facing a maximum penalty of 10 years. Judge Justin Marinovich described the case as particularly challenging due to its complexities. He noted that while the parents had previously faced concerns regarding their son's health, the court's focus was limited to the six days outlined in the charge. The judge acknowledged the couple's remorse and their previous good character, ultimately sentencing them to 23 months in prison, which was reduced to 11.5 months of home detention. Additionally, the couple was granted name suppression to protect their other children from the repercussions of the case.