Christchurch man Michael John Topp has been found guilty of murdering his three-month-old daughter in 2021.

Topp had been on trial in the High Court at Christchurch since May 1.

As well as the 2021 murder charge, he was facing three charges of causing the baby grievous bodily harm with intent.

In a statement, police said they “acknowledge the verdict handed down in the High Court at Christchurch today in relation to the death of a child in Christchurch in 2021.

“A homicide investigation is a terribly distressing experience, not only for the family and friends of those affected, but also for the Police staff and other agencies involved.

This has been no different, and today is about the child’s mother and all those who dearly loved this baby.”

Sentencing is scheduled for 16 July 2024.