The High Court in Suva has sentenced a man to nearly 14 years in prison for multiple sexual assault and rape charges. The sentencing took place on Wednesday before Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu. The individual was found guilty on three counts of sexual assault and two counts of rape, as outlined in the Crimes Act 2009.
The offenses occurred in Naikawaga Village, Tailevu, with incidents reported between June and December 2020 for sexual assault, and between January and December 2018 for rape, where the victim was unlawfully penetrated. The accused confessed to all five charges during the proceedings.
In determining the sentence, Justice Bulamainaivalu referenced section 18 of the Sentencing and Penalties Act 2009, establishing a non-parole period of 12 years based on prior Supreme Court rulings. The accused has the option to appeal the sentence within 30 days.