A businessman has been found guilty of sexually assaulting his stepdaughter over a six-year period. The case was brought before Justice Siainiu Fa’alogo Bull at the Suva High Court, where the man faced eight counts of rape. Initially charged with nine counts, one was removed after both the prosecution and defense agreed that there was insufficient evidence to proceed with that particular charge.
Court documents reveal that the victim moved to Fiji from the UK in 2008 with her mother and younger brother and began living with the accused in 2010. Before the trial continued, the defendant opted to take responsibility for his actions by pleading guilty to the charges. He also accepted the summary of facts read in court. In light of his guilty plea, Justice Bull has revoked the man’s bail and placed him in custody until the sentencing.
Prosecutors Shaheen Bibi and Unaisi Ratukalou represented the Director of Public Prosecutions, while lawyer Gavin O’Driscoll represented the accused. The sentencing hearing and mitigation are set to begin tomorrow.
This case underscores the importance of holding individuals accountable for their actions, particularly in matters involving abuse and exploitation within families. Hopefully, the outcome will serve as a deterrent to others and provide some degree of justice for the victim.
Summary: A businessman has been found guilty of raping his stepdaughter over six years, leading to his remand in custody by the court. The case highlights critical issues of accountability in abuse cases.
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