A 19-year-old who was convicted of breaking into a home and stealing valuables has been ordered to attend counseling through the Social Welfare Department as part of a two-year suspended sentence. The young man, who committed the crime at 17, will not face jail time if he stays offense-free for the next seven years. The judge mandated that he be placed under a two-year probation with the Social Welfare Department.
At the High Court in Lautoka, Justice Riyaz Hamza stated, “The Social Welfare Department is to immediately arrange for counseling to be provided to you in the presence of your mother.” He also emphasized the importance of support for the young man’s mother to enhance her parenting skills.
The young man faced charges for aggravated burglary after he and others entered a residence in Korovutu, Ba, by removing the louvre blades from the kitchen window while the owner was away. Justice Hamza noted that the level of harm was considered to be low, as the stolen items were of minor value and there was no physical or psychological damage inflicted on the complainant.
During the sentencing, it was disclosed that the young man is currently involved in farming and acknowledged that his actions stemmed from poor judgment and peer pressure. Justice Hamza expressed that the potential for rehabilitation was high, deeming it suitable to suspend the punishment for seven years to deter future offenses and protect the community.