The man accused of murdering a two-year-old girl at Mangawhai Heads in Northland has been revealed as her stepfather, Aaron Archer.
His trial began at the High Court in Auckland on Monday. It's understood the twin brother of the victim, Ariah Roberts, tragically died at birth.
- Man charged over death of 2yo in Mangawhai Heads
- Man appears in court after death of 2yo in Northland
Archer stands accused of allegedly murdering the two-year-old last year. Police were called to a home on August 22 - when they arrived, the toddler was already dead.
At the time of the incident, Archer had been involved in a relationship with the girl's mother.
The 31-year-old entered a not guilty plea at the High Court in Auckland on Monday.
A jury of seven women and five men has been selected to preside over the case.
Archer sat solemnly in the dock, occasionally glancing at those who have been selected to decide his fate.
The jury has been reminded to put aside any sympathy they may hold for Ariah, or any prejudice they may hold against the man accused with her murder.
The court will reconvene on Tuesday.
Newshub.
