A 25-year-old teacher from a well-known school in Tailevu, who is currently facing charges of sexual assault, has been scheduled for trial next year. The accused appeared before Justice Usaia Ratuvili in Suva for an initial court mention.
The teacher is charged with one count of sexual assault and three counts of rape, with the allegations involving two boys aged 15 and 17 that reportedly took place in March of this year. The charges have been approved by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP).
During the court proceedings, DPP lawyer Triveshni Sharma informed the court that a pretrial conference checklist and proposed agreed facts had been submitted. Ms. Sharma is expected to call upon eight witnesses to testify during the trial, although she noted that this number could change after witness conferencing.
The accused has been granted an extension of his bail, and the case is scheduled to be revisited on July 25, 2025.
This case, while serious and concerning, highlights the judicial system’s responsiveness in addressing such allegations and ensuring that justice is pursued. The upcoming trial will provide an opportunity for all parties to present their evidence and arguments, underscoring the importance of due process in the legal system.
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