As stated by Detective Senior Sergeant Damon Wells:
Police acknowledge today's sentencing in relation to the death of six-year-old Lachlan Gebhardt, who died in November 2019.
His father pleaded guilty to manslaughter in June.
The loss of a child is an incredible tragedy and I want to commend the strength and resolve of Lachlan's wider whānau and loved ones through this process.
I also want to acknowledge the members of the public and frontline staff who were faced with this horrific incident and did everything they could to help.
Finally, I want to thank the investigation team. There is no way you can investigate a case of this nature and not be affected, but they have demonstrated professionalism throughout.
Nothing will bring Lachlan back, but it is my hope that today will bring some closure in this very sad, senseless case.
