Whangārei, New Zealand – A man has been sentenced to eight years in prison for a violent attack on his ex-girlfriend’s new boyfriend at a campsite in Northland. The judge condemned the perpetrator for his actions, stating that women are not possessions to be controlled and that everyone has the right to choose their own partners without fear of violence.
Michael Bracey, 50, was found guilty by a jury of wounding with intent to injure and possession of an offensive weapon in connection to the November 2021 assault. Despite Bracey’s claims of innocence, the jury and sentencing judge saw through his excuses, emphasizing that his actions were premeditated and driven by a desire for control.
The court heard that the relationship between Bracey and Maia Pehi-Hannah had ended, leading to escalating tensions and Bracey being trespassed from her workplace. When Pehi-Hannah began a new relationship with Ricky Addison, Bracey’s jealousy and possessiveness led him to plan a late-night attack on the couple at a remote beach campsite.
Bracey armed himself with a hammer and knife, dressed in black from head to toe, and ambushed Addison while he was cooking dinner. The ensuing altercation left Addison with severe injuries, including rib fractures and a head wound. Emergency services were called to intervene, highlighting the dangerous and traumatic nature of the attack.
In sentencing, Judge Gene Tomlinson condemned Bracey’s actions, noting the high rates of domestic violence-related homicides in New Zealand. He dismissed Bracey’s claims of self-defense, labeling them as lies and emphasizing the premeditated nature of the attack. Pehi-Hannah, the victim, expressed the lasting psychological impact of the assault, sharing her struggles with anxiety and fear following the traumatic incident.
The judge’s decision to hand Bracey a lengthy prison sentence sends a strong message about the seriousness of domestic violence and the consequences of controlling and abusive behavior. The case serves as a stark reminder of the need to address and prevent such acts of violence in communities, emphasizing the importance of early intervention and support for victims of abuse.
Shannon Pitman, a reporter covering courts in the Te Tai Tokerau region, provided valuable insight into the case, shedding light on the impact of domestic violence on individuals and communities. As the story unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the ongoing challenges in combating domestic abuse and the vital role of the justice system in holding perpetrators accountable for their actions.