A 24-year-old man has received an 11-year prison sentence for the sexual assault of his 11-year-old cousin, with a non-parole period set at six years and nine months. The ruling was delivered by Justice Lee James Burney at the High Court in Lautoka, where the man was found guilty of two counts of child rape, specifically involving a victim under the age of 13.
The assault took place between January 1, 2021, and December 31, 2022, while the victim’s parents were away gathering yaqona in the forest, leaving their children under the care of the man’s mother. It was during this time that the man lured the victim into a vulnerable situation, threatening her to ensure her silence about the attack.
Justice Burney emphasized the serious nature of the crimes committed while also recognizing that the man is a young first offender. Noting the gravity of the offences, the judge highlighted the importance of rehabilitation rather than merely punitive measures, indicating a preference for providing the offender with opportunities for reform.
This case underscores the ongoing challenges regarding the protection of children and the importance of addressing such crimes with both justice and opportunities for rehabilitation in mind. The court’s approach reflects a hope for a constructive path forward, aiming not only to punish but also to encourage personal accountability and change.
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