A 22-year-old man, convicted of raping his 12-year-old cousin, has been sentenced to serve seven years of his 10-year prison term before becoming eligible for parole. The sentencing occurred at the High Court in Suva on Wednesday.
The accused, who is a father to a four-year-old and has a partner who is currently pregnant with their second child, committed the crime on November 13, 2022, while staying at his grandparents’ house where the victim was also visiting. In the early hours of the night, after the young girl had fallen asleep, he assaulted her. Upon realizing what had happened, she fled the house after he returned to his room.
The following day, the girl informed her teacher about the incident, who then contacted the police. Justice Dane Tuiqereqere addressed the seriousness of the crime, emphasizing that the victim was a child who should have felt safe in her grandparents’ home. He noted that the accused took advantage of her trusting nature, violating her innocence and childhood.
The judge expressed concerns about the long-term psychological effects the crime would have on the victim, particularly regarding her ability to trust males in her life. While recognizing that this was the accused’s first offense and allowing room for rehabilitation, he pointed out the impact of his actions on the victim.
Additionally, the court revealed that the accused is undergoing treatment for a serious medical condition. Justice Tuiqereqere also imposed a domestic violence restraining order and standard non-molestation and non-contact provisions. The Fiji Corrections Service has been tasked with ensuring the accused receives necessary treatment while incarcerated.