HONOLULU, HI – A tragic case of child abuse has surfaced in Hawaii, where a mother and her girlfriend face charges of second-degree murder and child abuse for the death of a 3-year-old girl allegedly subjected to severe neglect and violence, authorities revealed. The victim, Sarai Perez-Rivera, suffered horrific treatment before her death, according to police.

Honolulu Police detailed a grim scene where first responders found Sarai in a critical state last June. Her body showed signs of severe malnutrition and multiple bruises, and she was unresponsive upon their arrival, Lt. Deena Thoemmes explained in a press briefing.

Investigators allege that the suspects, Janae Perez—Sarai’s mother—and her partner, Ashley Utley, restricted the children to just 8 ounces of water daily and controlled their food intake, leading to Sarai’s death from dehydration and starvation. Three other children between the ages of 2 and 6 also endured this “disturbing” abuse but survived and have now been placed in protective custody.

The case emerged after a former housemate of Perez and Utley approached authorities with details about the abuse, corroborating initial claims by Sarai’s biological father, who had reported the child’s death the previous year. Despite the delay, charges were filed following a comprehensive investigation.

The extent of the abuse included not only the deprivation of basic necessities but also physical violence, as the women reportedly beat the children with hands, sticks, paddles, and other objects. Disturbing footage further showed Sarai in distress, pleading for the bathroom and water, as verbal assaults echoed from her caretakers.

Court documents reveal an instance where one child, attempting to escape, was violently punished with a stick and screwdriver. Neighbors recall hearing the children’s cries, heightening the community’s horror at the situation within the home.

During the investigation, both women initially attempted to deflect blame onto a 5-year-old child in the household. However, this claim was dismissed by the evidence gathered. The children recounted their experiences to police, describing bizarre and heart-wrenching accounts of their time under the care of Perez and Utley.

The local community has expressed sorrow and outrage over the case, hoping for justice for Sarai and security for the surviving siblings. “Just pure sadness,” a neighbor lamented, voicing a collective hope that the remaining children find safety and healing.

As the legal proceedings move forward, the case serves as a chilling reminder of child welfare challenges, sparking calls for vigilance and reform to prevent such tragedies in the future.