A 69-year-old man accused of raping a 10-year-old girl earlier this year has been ordered to remain in custody until his relocation issue is addressed. The man faces charges of rape and sexual assault of the minor, who referred to him as “grandfather.”
The case was heard by Justice Dane Tuiqereqere last week at the High Court in Suva, related to an alleged incident that took place on May 5. State prosecutor Katarina Dugan stated that while the State is not opposing bail, the proposed sureties submitted were deemed unsuitable. She noted that the first surety was the accused’s 21-year-old unemployed niece, and the second was also a relative.
Dugan informed the court that the man’s family was still deliberating on his proposed relocation. Justice Tuiqereqere indicated that the accused would require legal assistance for both his substantive and bail matters. Legal Aid lawyer Severo Ravu agreed to serve as the duty solicitor for the accused.
Both sides have been granted seven days to communicate and resolve the surety concerns. Dugan has also filed full disclosures, and the defense has been given three weeks to provide guidance to their client regarding the plea. The bail application for the accused is scheduled for October 1, with the plea to be recorded on October 18.