A 22-year-old man, Lasarusa Tamani Kolinisau, has been sentenced to 18 months in prison following his conviction for stealing a safe from the Land Transport Authority’s office in Rawai, Suva. Kolinisau did not appear in court when his sentence was announced by Justice Daniel Goundar on December 20, having left the courtroom to get a drink of water and not returning.
Kolinisau was found guilty of aggravated burglary and theft, both of which occurred during the COVID-19 curfew. Reports indicate that he had been drinking at a nightclub before joining three others in their plan to break into the LTA office. During the committed crime, which took place around 3 AM, Kolinisau and one accomplice acted as lookouts while two others executed the break-in.
Although the prosecution alleged that $8,553.80 was stolen, Justice Goundar highlighted that only $800 and some bags of coins were proven to have been taken. Kolinisau reportedly spent the stolen money on food and clothing for himself. The court noted that the office was vacant at the time of the theft, and no psychological harm was inflicted on anyone due to the incident.
During the sentencing, Justice Goundar indicated that Kolinisau, who is a first-time offender and employed as a construction laborer, showed little remorse for his actions. In light of his criminal behavior, the judge determined that a custodial sentence was necessary to hold him accountable and ensure community safety. His sentence will commence from the date of his arrest.
This incident serves as a reminder of the consequences of poor decision-making and the importance of personal responsibility, particularly for younger individuals who may face temptation during difficult circumstances. It also highlights the judicial system’s commitment to addressing crime while considering the circumstances surrounding each case. Hopefully, Kolinisau can use this time to reflect on his choices and work toward a more positive future for himself and his child.
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