A man has been sentenced to nine years in prison for sexually assaulting a woman at a hospital in Kadavu in 2023, as ruled by the Suva High Court. The case reveals a deeply troubling breach of trust, as the victim had sought medical assistance to determine her pregnancy status following a previous incident of sexual assault and abduction.
During the proceedings, it was highlighted that the accused, a radiographer, took advantage of the vulnerable situation to commit the crime rather than providing the necessary medical care. The Judge emphasized the high level of culpability associated with such an offense, noting that it not only violated the trust of the victim but also undermined the integrity of the healthcare system that placed confidence in his role.
In determining the sentence, the Judge acknowledged the 17 days the man had already spent in remand, which would count towards his imprisonment. As a result, he will serve an additional eight months and eleven days behind bars, alongside a non-parole period of five years and eleven months.
This case serves as a critical reminder of the importance of trust in healthcare settings and the need for accountability for those who violate that trust. The sentence reflects the court’s commitment to delivering justice for victims and upholding the principles of safety and care within the medical profession.
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