A lawyer representing a pastor convicted of sexually assaulting 12 boys between the ages of nine and 16 has been granted additional time to file an appeal. The appeal was heard yesterday by Justice Dane Tuiqereqere in a case that has drawn significant attention.
The 43-year-old pastor, currently serving a sentence of nine years and six months, is appealing both his conviction and the length of his sentence, which includes a non-parole period of seven years. His conviction, handed down in 2024 by Magistrate Seini Puamau, includes a total of ten counts of various sexual offenses: four counts of indecent assault, three counts of indecently insulting a person, two counts of sexual assault with intent to rape, one count of sexual assault, and one count of attempted sexual assault.
The magistrate characterized the pastor’s actions as a “multiple sex crime spree” that took place in a village where he held pastoral responsibilities. The case has raised awareness about the protection of children in communities and the importance of holding offenders accountable.
The next court appearance will be before trial judge Justice Usaia Ratuvili in Suva, with the matter adjourned until January 20. This case highlights the ongoing challenge of ensuring justice for victims of sexual crimes, particularly against minors, and the legal processes involved in seeking appeals.
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