Whangārei, New Zealand – A man was sentenced to eight years in prison for a violent attack on his ex-girlfriend’s new partner at a campsite in Northland. The judge strongly condemned the perpetrator, Michael Bracey, for his actions, emphasizing that women are not possessions and that no one has the right to control or limit others physically. The assault left the victims with serious injuries, including psychological scars for the ex-girlfriend and physical injuries for her new partner.
In the court proceedings, it was revealed that Bracey had been in a relationship with Maia Pehi-Hannah, but when she started dating another man named Ricky Addison, Bracey became resentful. He went to the campsite armed with a hammer and a knife, where he attacked Addison, leading to a physical altercation that required emergency services to intervene. The judge dismissed Bracey’s claims of self-defense and condemned his violent behavior.
The victim impact statements revealed the lasting effects of the attack on Pehi-Hannah, who described feeling constant fear and anxiety as a result of the incident. She expressed frustration at being unable to move on from the trauma caused by Bracey’s actions, highlighting the emotional and psychological toll it had taken on her. The judge commended her for her courage during the chaotic situation and noted the severity of domestic violence-related incidents in New Zealand.
Judge Tomlinson emphasized the serious nature of the crime and the need to address the high rate of domestic violence in the country. He rejected Bracey’s excuses and lies, pointing out the evidence that contradicted his claims of self-defense. The sentencing served as a reminder of the consequences of domestic abuse and the importance of holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.
The case serves as a stark reminder of the impact of domestic violence on victims and the need for greater awareness and intervention to prevent such incidents from occurring in the future. The sentencing of Michael Bracey sends a clear message that violence against partners will not be tolerated, and perpetrators will be held accountable for their actions.