Woman indicted for manslaughter in cruel death of adoptive daughter

A 39-year-old Laie woman, Sina Pili, is currently in police custody following her indictment for manslaughter and child endangerment connected to the tragic death of her 11-year-old adoptive daughter, Azaeliyah Pili-Ah You. The indictment came from an Oahu Grand Jury and highlights a deeply disturbing sequence of events that took place in December 2023.

Authorities have described the circumstances surrounding Azaeliyah's death as horrific, detailing that she suffered extensive physical abuse. Lt. Deena Thoemmes from the HPD Criminal Investigation Division reported that the autopsy revealed severe injuries, including multiple abrasions and signs of possible strangulation. The medical examination indicated that some of the bruising was so severe it penetrated the skin and reached vital organs.

On the day of her death, it is alleged that Pili slapped and punched Azaeliyah repeatedly over a half-hour period following a trip to the chapel. The brutal attack resulted in significant trauma, including rib fractures and severe bleeding in the skull, alongside her positive tests for COVID-19, influenza, and pneumonia at the time of her death.

Sina Pili has been identified as a behavioral health specialist at Kahuku High and Intermediate School, where she was arrested. In addition, she held a position as an adjunct instructor in education and social work at Brigham Young University-Hawaii, although she was terminated immediately upon news of her arrest.

Furthermore, Pili is also the adoptive mother of four other children, aged 12 and under, who have since been placed in protective custody. The case raises serious concerns about child welfare and the responsibilities of caregivers in ensuring the safety and well-being of minors.