ICYMI: Manslaughter Charges for Hawaii School Worker—Child DIES After Brutal ASSAULT!
A behavioral health specialist’s expertise in child welfare didn’t stop her from allegedly inflicting fatal abuse on her 11-year-old daughter. 🌐 #News #LaieHI #Hawaii #Crime
LAIE, HI — In a case that has rocked the peaceful island community of Laie, Hawaii, a 39-year-old social worker faces manslaughter charges after allegedly subjecting her adopted daughter to a brutal half-hour assault that ended in tragedy.
Horrific Details Emerge
Sina Pili, who worked at Kahuku High and Intermediate School, was arrested on Friday following a grand jury indictment.
The charges stem from the December 2023 death of her 11-year-old adopted daughter, Azaeliyah Pili-Ah You, who succumbed to injuries after being forced to run to a chapel while ill with multiple infections.
A Pattern of Alleged Abuse
According to Honolulu Police Lieutenant Deena Thoemmes, the victim had been kept home from school multiple times due to illness, including a 101-degree fever.
On the morning of her death, despite her condition, the child was allegedly forced to run to a nearby chapel. What followed, investigators say, was a 30-minute barrage of punches and slaps.
Devastating Medical Findings
The medical examiner’s report painted a grim picture of the child’s final moments.
Injuries included deep bruising that reached the diaphragm, widespread abrasions across the body, bite marks on the nose, and signs of strangulation.
Adding to the tragedy, the examination revealed the child had been fighting COVID-19, influenza A, and pneumonia at the time of death.
Professional Background Raises Questions
Before her arrest, Pili maintained a respected position in education and social services.
She held a master’s degree in social work and taught as an adjunct professor at Brigham Young University-Hawaii. The university has since terminated her contract.
At the time of her arrest at Kahuku High and Intermediate School, she was employed as a behavioral health specialist.
Investigation Continues
While Pili remains in custody without bond, authorities continue to investigate the role of Azaeliyah’s adoptive father, who has not been arrested but remains under scrutiny.
The case has also prompted an investigation into the welfare of Pili’s four other adopted children, all under the age of 12. The accused is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
RELATED TOPICS: Crime | Hawaii
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