The High Court in Suva has sentenced a man to 16 years and 10 months in prison for raping his stepdaughter. The former primary school teacher received the sentence from Justice Thushara Rajasinghe after being found guilty of three counts of rape, as well as one count each of indecent assault and sexual assault.
The court heard evidence that occurred several times between 2017 and 2018, during which the man assaulted his stepdaughter in their home. At the time of the incidents, the victim was 17 years old. Although he initially pleaded guilty to five counts, the prosecution was able to secure a conviction after presenting three witnesses during the trial, including the victim.
Justice Rajasinghe emphasized the severe emotional and psychological impact the crime had on the victim and noted that the sexual exploitation of children within their homes poses a significant social threat. The court found that the defendant preyed on the complainant when she was alone and vulnerable.
He was noted for exploiting his position as her stepfather, fulfilling paternal responsibilities while simultaneously manipulating her for sexual gratification. Despite the victim and her mother offering forgiveness, the man attempted to assault her again when given the chance.
The court considered his prior good character as a mitigating factor, having worked as a primary school teacher for 30 years. He will serve his sentence with a non-parole period of 14 years and 10 months. A permanent domestic violence restraining order has also been placed against him, mandating no contact with the victim. Violation of this order will result in prosecution under the Domestic Violence Act.