A 24-year-old man has received a sentence of 15 years and 10 months in prison for the sexual assault of his 11-year-old cousin, as ruled by Justice Sunil Sharma in the High Court. Along with this sentence, the court also mandated a non-parole period of 11 years.
The crime occurred while the young victim was asleep in the living room of a home situated in the Western Division. Following the incident, the victim bravely informed her mother, leading to a prompt report to the police. The suspect was subsequently arrested, interrogated, and charged.
During the sentencing on May 10 in Lautoka, Justice Sharma highlighted a troubling trend: the rising incidence of sexual offenses, which he described as a serious reflection of societal issues. The defense attorney, Filimoni Daveta, sought mitigation for the offender, noting his age, marital status, and employment as a farmer and part-time tile layer, emphasizing that he was a first-time offender. To further protect the victim, the court has imposed a permanent non-molestation and non-contact order against the perpetrator.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges related to sexual violence, yet it also underscores the importance of speaking out and seeking justice, as demonstrated by the victim’s courage in reporting the incident. The legal system’s response reflects a commitment to addressing such crimes and attempting to deter future occurrences, offering hope for better protections for vulnerable individuals in the future.
Overall, it is vital for communities to foster open dialogues around these issues and support victims in their quest for justice, helping to create a safer environment for all.
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