Rick Cataldo was sentenced to eight years' jail in the Brisbane Supreme Court on Monday, December 4, for the manslaughter of his daughter Lily Rain Cataldo when she was just less than two months old.
The court heard that Lily had suffered multiple skull fractures, four rib fractures and a spinal fracture to her right arm seven to ten days before she died.
Cataldo has served almost four years awaiting sentencing after his partner, Michelle Catherine Leask, informed investigators she walked in to find him 'whacking' their daughter repeatedly.
Cataldo explained to the court it was due to his daughter's 'breathing troubles.'
In her sentencing, Justice Debra Mullins took the fact Cataldo didn’t have a criminal history and his long battle with anxiety and low mood into consideration.
She told the court, 'Subsequent to your daughter's death, you made a number of threats to commit suicide.
'You have been treated for panic attacks, anxiety and depression during your time in custody.'
Justice Mullins also agreed his psychiatrist’s assessment that his risk of reoffending was low and would be minimal if he stayed sober.
If you are seeking support and information about suicide prevention you can contact Lifeline on 13 11 14.