SINGAPORE — In a disturbing case that underscores the vulnerabilities of children with special needs, a mother and her boyfriend were sentenced to prison for their heinous abuse of an 11-year-old girl, who suffers from high-functioning autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). The age of the victim is now 15, and she was left with severe bruises following the couple's cruel actions.

On September 17, 2023, the couple, both 36 years old, faced the consequences of their actions, with the mother receiving a 10-month prison term while her boyfriend was sentenced to 12 months. They both pleaded guilty to charges related to the ill-treatment of a child under the Children and Young Persons Act (CYPA).

During the sentencing, District Judge Shaiffudin Saruwan considered multiple factors, including the boyfriend's struggle with major depressive disorder. Although this condition warranted a slight reduction in his sentence, it was established that he remained aware of the wrongfulness of his actions, emphasizing that mental health issues are not an excuse for such abhorrent behavior.

The case was particularly aggravating due to the extensive physical injuries inflicted upon the child, who required 10 days of hospitalization. The girl reported feelings of sadness and fear, particularly about returning to her home, where she experienced recurrent nightmares and trauma from the beatings she endured.

Both the mother and the boyfriend breached the trust of the child, who referred to the man as "daddy." Their actions not only impacted her physically but also left deep psychological scars, illustrating the need for stronger protections for vulnerable youths.

Background information reveals that the mother was navigating a tumultuous marriage before meeting her co-accused in 2019. Initially, he seemed to build a good rapport with her daughter, but the relationship soured, and the couple resorted to physical punishment. Reports show that they began using increasingly severe methods to discipline the child for typical childhood behaviors, escalating from a hanger to a cane, and finally, to beating her with a belt.

The abuse came to light when a vigilant teacher noticed the cane marks on the girl and arranged a meeting that unfortunately never took place. Before the discussion could occur, the boyfriend unleashed a vicious attack, hitting the girl approximately 20 times with a belt, adding more injuries to her already suffering body.

Once the school's concerns were raised to the Ministry of Social and Family Development, the police initiated an investigation. Both abusers admitted to the undue severity of their punishments during questioning, recognizing that they had gone too far.

Critically, the judiciary also took into account that the child has since been removed from the couple's care and placed with other family members, ensuring her safety and well-being. The laws in Singapore prescribe stringent penalties for child abuse; those convicted can face up to eight years in prison, with fines reaching up to S$8,000 (approximately US$6,180).

As the community grapples with the repercussions of this tragic case, it serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and intervention on behalf of society's most vulnerable members. Resources and support systems are essential in preventing such abuse and ensuring the safety of children like this brave young girl.