A 24-year-old Napier man originally charged with the assault and rape of a five-year-old girl has now been charged with her manslaughter.
The body of Sahara Jayde Baker-Koro was found in a bed at a house in the suburb of Maraenui just before Christmas.
Kerry Ratana, who lived in the house, was initially charged with common assault, and later with sexual violation.
At the Napier District Court on Wednesday, police replaced the assault charge with one of manslaughter.
Mr Ratana has been remanded in custody.
