Father Sentenced to 15 Years for Unspeakable Crimes Against Daughter

A father has been sentenced to 15 years in prison for the rape of his biological daughter, following a verdict by the Lautoka High Court. The victim was just 12 years old at the time of the abuse, which occurred in 2002. This case initiates legal proceedings two decades later due to the victim filing a late report, highlighting the persistent stigma and fear that often impede victims from coming forward.

Justice Aruna Aluthge, who presided over the case, noted the alarming rise in sexual offenses involving children in Fiji, emphasizing the need for deterrent sentences to confront this troubling trend. He remarked, “The courts have emphasized that the increasing prevalence of this offence in our community calls for deterrent sentences.”

The perpetrator, who is now 67 years old, engaged in a premeditated crime by creating a hidden access point in the victim’s bedroom to carry out the abuse. His actions included threats that intimidated the young girl and prevented her from reporting the incidents for many years. It wasn’t until June 2023 that she finally felt secure enough to disclose the abuse to the authorities.

The judge condemned the father’s betrayal of trust, reflecting on the long-term psychological effects this trauma would have on the victim. Justice Aluthge highlighted that the main purpose of sentencing is to firmly denounce such abhorrent actions and to safeguard the community from similar crimes.

Interestingly, this case resonates with a broader societal concern regarding familial abuse, which has gained attention due to recent rulings against offenders who have faced significant penalties for sexual crimes against family members. This growing judicial concern reflects a societal shift toward enhanced protections for minors, fostering hope for improved accountability and safety for vulnerable individuals.

The sentenced individual has the option to appeal within 30 days. This case serves as a testament to the resilience of survivors who ultimately seek justice, instilling faith in the legal system to address and correct such severe offenses against children.