A stepfather in his forties, facing allegations of repeatedly raping and sexually assaulting his 12-year-old stepdaughter, has been handed a $2000 non-cash bail by the High Court in Suva. The man denies the charges against him, which include four counts of rape and five counts of sexual assault reportedly committed from January to March of this year.
The man’s bail bond was backed by two cousins, each having $1000 tied up. The presiding Justice, Dane Tuiqereqere, stressed to the sureties their obligation to ensure the defendant’s court attendance.
Under the terms of his bail, the accused is required to report to Nabua Police Station every Thursday. The court also put in place a domestic violence restraining order to shield the child and issued a stop-departure order preventing the man from leaving the country.
The case is set to start hearing evidence on March 31 next year.