With the sentencing of James Louis Mason today Police are pleased that there can now be some clarity over what he was charged with and found guilty of.
"Some media have reported this case as an example of the so called Anti Smacking legislation whereas Mr Mason had been charged with assaulting a child under the age of 14 years," says Christchurch Central Area Commander Derek Erasmus.
Inspector Derek Erasmus says that some media have incorrectly reported what was a 'straight forward case of an assault', reported by concerned witnesses, into a challenge to a parliamentary law.
"Mr Mason was seen by two very credible witnesses to punch his child and he was subsequently charged with this offence." says Inspector Erasmus.
The sentencing reflects the concern of the Judge, Jury and the public who witnessed the incident. After the jury returned their guilty verdict Judge Crosbie told the jury; 'I can understand that verdict and that it implies acceptance of the evidence of the people who were at the scene.'
Mr Mason was found guilty after a 9 1/2 hour jury consideration on 19 May 2009 and today was sentenced to 9 months supervision.
"Anyone who punches a child can expect the same attention from Police," says Inspector Erasmus.