Family of Emily Otton-Rakuraku push for treatment of DV cases to change

The family of a Logan mother-of-two allegedly set on fire by her ex-partner has provided an update on her condition as they push for the justice system to change.

Destiny Otton-Rakuraku. Picture: Channel 7

The family of a Logan mother-of-two allegedly set on fire by her ex-partner has provided a positive update on her condition as they push for the justice system to change.

Police allege Destiny Otton-Rakuraku, 34, was set on fire by her ex-partner Renata Edward Manning, 36, at her home in Kingston on Saturday morning.

It will be alleged Mr Manning was involved in an altercation with Ms Otton-Rakuraku before pouring accelerant on her and using a lighter to set her on fire.

Ms Otton-Rakuraku has had two surgeries and a first lot of skin grafting since the incident. Both surgeries have gone well, giving the family hope.

Her cousin Blake Timu told The Courier-Mail they were taking it day by day.

Destiny Otton-Rakuraku had been in and on-and-off relationship with the man alleged to have attacked her.

“It is still a long journey but she’s healing well and we are hoping she will be out of the ICU unit soon and off life support,” she said.

“But there is no update from doctors when that will be.”

Ms Timu said the message needed to be pushed out that all alleged DV cases, not just Destiny’s, needed to be taken more seriously.

“We’re all sickened at how the justice system is working with these cases when it’s right in front of their eyes,” she said.

On Tuesday the family were visited by Minister for Child Safety and the Prevention of Domestic and Family Violence Amanda Camm.

“She took some time out of her day to come hear our struggles and her team are helping Destiny with resources that will help her once she’s out and into recovery after,” she said.

It is understood shocked neighbours saw Ms Otton-Rakuraku on fire and called emergency services before trying to help her.

The couple had allegedly broken up in November after being in an on and off relationship

Mr Manning was arrested and charged shortly after the incident with attempted murder, common assault and other offences.

He had his matter mentioned in Beenleigh Magistrates Court earlier this week, but the matter has been adjourned for mention on March 12.

Queensland Police have said investigations would include any previous calls for service and the relationship between the pair.

Originally published as Family of Emily Otton-Rakuraku push for treatment of DV cases to change