The High Court in Suva has sentenced a man to 16 years and 10 months in prison for the rape of his stepdaughter. The former primary school teacher, who was convicted by Justice Thushara Rajasinghe, faced multiple charges, including three counts of rape and one count each of indecent and sexual assault.
Evidence presented in court showed that between 2017 and 2018, the man sexually assaulted the victim at their home. At the time of the incidents, the complainant was just 17 years old.
Initially, the man pleaded guilty to five counts but was ultimately found guilty following the testimonies of three witnesses, including the victim, during the trial. The sentencing was formally issued on September 27, but the final judgment was given on the following Friday.
Justice Rajasinghe emphasized the emotional and psychological impact the crimes had on the victim. He described the sexual exploitation of children in their own homes as a significant social issue. The court noted that the stepfather committed the offenses when the victim was alone and vulnerable.
The judge highlighted that, despite being a parental figure and providing for the girl’s needs, the man abused his position to seek sexual gratification, manipulating the victim’s innocence and young age. Even after being forgiven by the victim and her mother, the man attempted to assault her again whenever he saw an opportunity.
While considering the man’s sentence, the court acknowledged his previously good character as a teacher over 30 years. He will serve a non-parole period of 14 years and 10 months.
Additionally, the court issued a permanent domestic violence restraining order against him, which includes conditions prohibiting any form of contact or molestation. Violating this order will result in prosecution under the Domestic Violence Act.