Title: Alleged child neglect investigation

On Friday 4January 2013 Hutt Valley Police were called to reports of disorder at a Lower Hutt address.

Since this time Police and Child Youth and Family have commenced a joint investigation into the family involved in this incident.

Today an operation by Hutt Valley Police and Child Youth and Family has resulted in the arrest and charging of the parents of four young children with their alleged neglect.

They each face four charges of neglect, one relating to each child.

The Officer in Charge of the Hutt Valley Family Violence Team, Detective Sergeant Emma Foote said: "This operation has been effective through the sharing of information and the strong relationship we have with our local Child Youth and Families Service. Our shared aim has been to assist in providing a safer environment for these children and to try and make a real difference."

The four children, aged between 4 years and 7 months have been placed into custody of Child Youth and Family.

The two persons arrested will appear in the Lower Hutt District Court tomorrow.

Ms Foote said: "I urge members of our community to call police, Child Youth and Family or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 if they have real concerns about the care and welfare of children they know.”

Police are not available for further comment at this time.

ENDS

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