A Christchurch man has been jailed for holding a heater to the face of his five-year-old son and leaving him with severe burns to his face.
The man has pleaded guilty to a charge of causing grievous bodily harm with intent to disfigure, receiving stolen goods and driving while disqualified.
He was sentenced to serve six years and 11 months in prison when he appeared in the Christchurch District Court on Wednesday.
The man, who has name suppression, made an emotional apology to his partner, who was in court with their young daughter and older son.
The five-year-old needed major surgery, including skin grafts, and was not in court. His father's apology was extended to him also.
The man pleaded with his older son not to make the same mistakes he had and not to get involved with a gang. He asked him to look after his mother and siblings and told his partner that he loved her.
In sentencing the man, Judge Alistair Garland said it was important that he be held to account.
Meanwhile, the head of the Christchurch Police Child Protection Unit said the boy's injuries are some of the worst he has seen.
Detective Senior Sergeant David Harvey said the five-year-old received severe burns across most of the right side of his face and is continuing to undergo surgery, including skin grafts.
The boy is back with his family, who are being helped by Child, Youth and Family.
