The High Court has sentenced a 49-year-old security guard to life imprisonment, with a minimum non-parole period of 16 years and 11 months, after convicting him of murder and causing grievous harm.
Joni Raciri appeared before Justice Pita Bulamainaivalu on the sentencing day. Raciri had entered a guilty plea on October 12, 2023, acknowledging his actions related to one count of murder and one count of acting with intent to cause grievous harm.
Justice Bulamainaivalu indicated a starting point for sentencing of four years, which was then increased by another four years due to aggravating factors. He highlighted the severity of the injuries inflicted, including the emotional and psychological trauma suffered by the victim, who was attacked with a garden hoe while vulnerable and intoxicated. Furthermore, the judge noted Raciri’s actions in preventing the victim from escaping by climbing over a gate during this incident.
With consideration for the overall circumstances of the case, the judge ordered that the sentences for both counts will run concurrently. Consequently, Raciri was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 16 years and 11 months. He has 30 days to file an appeal with the Fiji Court of Appeal.