Man jailed for digitally raping four-year-old girl in Suva; 13 years 9 months with 11-year non-parole
A man has been sentenced to 13 years and nine months in prison, with a non-parole period of 11 years, by the Suva High Court after being convicted of digitally raping a four-year-old girl. The offence occurred on March 2 this year at the YMCA on Waimanu Road in Suva, where the accused worked as a watchman. The victim had wandered into a basement area after a church service and was discovered by her 13-year-old sister while the assault was ongoing. The child’s parents confronted the man and escorted him to the police.
Justice Daniel Goundar described the circumstances as deeply disturbing. He noted the victim’s extreme vulnerability, the offender’s intoxication, and a 50-year age gap. The judge also pointed out the offender’s lack of remorse and his attempt to place blame on the child. The court applied sentencing guidelines for child rape and referenced similar cases in Fiji where offenders received lengthy prison terms. Aggravating factors added four years to the sentence, while the offender’s good prior character reduced it by one year, and time spent on remand reduced the term by three months. Justice Goundar emphasized that sexual offences against vulnerable children require strong denunciation and deterrence.
Context and comparisons
In related high-profile cases heard by the Suva High Court, defendants convicted of multiple counts of sexual assault and rape have received sentences around 13 years to 13 years and 11 months, with non-parole periods typically around 12 years. These decisions reflect a consistent judicial approach that prioritizes the protection of children and the denunciation of sexual violence.
What this means
– The ruling reinforces Fiji’s stance that crimes against young children are among the most serious offences and will face substantial prison terms.
– The judge weighed factors such as the victim’s vulnerability, the offender’s intoxication, and the substantial age difference to determine a severe sentence.
– The decision signals continued deterrence against sexual violence toward children and underscores the importance of accountability for perpetrators.
– It may also encourage other victims and families to report abuse, knowing the judiciary can impose strong penalties.
Summary
A Suva High Court judge handed down a lengthy prison term to a man convicted of digitally raping a four-year-old girl, reflecting Fiji’s stringent sentencing approach to child sexual offences and the judiciary’s commitment to protecting vulnerable children.
Additional notes
– This case highlights the ongoing need for community awareness, robust child protection measures, and accessible reporting pathways for victims and witnesses.
– Support services for survivors and families, including counseling and legal assistance, remain critical in the aftermath of such offences.
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