A 64-year-old man has been sentenced to 16 years and 11 months in prison for the rape of his 12-year-old niece. The court ruled that he must serve at least 14 years and 11 months before being eligible for parole. This decision follows crimes committed between April and October 2021, during which the victim’s mother noticed changes in her daughter’s body while attending a funeral in 2022. Upon inquiry, the victim disclosed the abuse, leading to a medical examination that revealed she was 30 weeks pregnant.
In the High Court of Ba, Justice Samuela Qica acknowledged the man’s guilty plea and his status as a first-time offender. However, he also noted several aggravating factors, including the breach of trust, the age difference between the offender and the victim, and the long duration of the abuse. The offender’s actions resulted in the victim conceiving at the young age of 13. The judge emphasized the serious nature of these crimes and imposed further restraining orders against the offender under the Domestic Violence Act.
The convicted individual has 30 days to appeal the sentencing in the Court of Appeal in Suva.
This case highlights the critical importance of protecting children from abuse and underscores the need for maintaining vigilance in our communities. While the long sentence reflects a commitment to justice for the victim, it is crucial to continue advocating for stronger safeguards and support systems for survivors of such heinous acts.
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