In June of last year, a tragic story unfolded in Kapolei that has shaken the community. Sarai Perez, a young girl full of potential and dreams, passed away under heartbreaking circumstances. Her story, which highlights years of alleged abuse and neglect, has now led to the arrest of her mother and her mother’s partner.
The Start of a Painful Investigation
On June 13, police were called to a townhouse on Kekuilani Loop. Inside, they found Sarai, unresponsive and malnourished, her small body showing signs of severe abuse. First responders described her skin as ashen, and she bore bruises across her legs, hips, arms, face, back, and head. She was rushed to Queen’s Medical Center West, but it was too late. Sarai was pronounced dead.
At first, her death was classified as “unattended.” But as investigators dug deeper, they uncovered horrifying details. Lt. Deena Thoemmes of the Honolulu Police Department shared, “After investigation, additional testing, and medical information, this case was reclassified to murder in the second degree.”
A House of Pain
Sarai’s mother, Janae Perez, and her partner, Ashleigh Utley, initially told police a shocking story: they claimed Sarai’s 5-year-old brother was responsible for her injuries. But investigators quickly ruled this out, discovering instead that all four of Janae’s children had suffered horrific abuse.
Police revealed that the couple frequently hit the children with their hands, sticks, paddles, slippers, and belts. Cellphone videos found during the investigation painted a grim picture: children locked in their rooms and Sarai crying in pain, begging for basic needs like water and a bathroom. The response? Yelling and swearing from her caretakers.
A Forensic Breakthrough
Following Sarai’s death, an autopsy was performed, but the cause was initially unclear. It wasn’t until recently that a forensic pathologist confirmed the tragic truth: Sarai had died from the combined effects of dehydration and starvation.
Police shared that Janae and Ashleigh had failed to provide medical care for Sarai and her siblings despite their clear and urgent needs.
Arrests and Justice
On Thursday, police arrested Janae, 25, and Ashleigh, 33, in the Kalihi area. They now face multiple charges, including second-degree murder, kidnapping, and endangering the welfare of a minor.
A Community in Mourning
This heartbreaking case has left many asking how such cruelty could go unnoticed. It’s a stark reminder of the importance of protecting our children and speaking up when we see signs of neglect or abuse.
Sarai’s story is one of unimaginable pain, but it’s also a call to action. Let’s honor her memory by ensuring no child endures such suffering again.
If you suspect abuse or neglect, don’t hesitate to reach out. Together, we can be the voice for those who cannot speak for themselves.
