Kiniviliame Nacagilevu, a 48-year-old father of three, received a five-year suspended sentence after being convicted of cultivating over one kilogram of marijuana. The ruling was delivered by Justice Dane Tuiqereqere in the High Court in Suva last week. Initially charged with the unlawful cultivation of 398.350 grams of marijuana in Kadavu, Nacagilevu’s defense argued about the number of plants involved. He claimed ownership of only 97 plants, while asserting that the 2,763 plants seized by police belonged to seven other farms.
The court found that the prosecution did not prove beyond a reasonable doubt that Nacagilevu was responsible for over 2,860 plants. Justice Tuiqereqere, while noting the commercial scale of Nacagilevu’s operation as a significant aggravating factor, emphasized the societal harm caused by drugs, describing it as a “plague” on the nation. Nonetheless, he acknowledged Nacagilevu’s remorse and his aspirations to start a construction business, recognizing the importance of family bonds in rehabilitation. As a result, the judge opted for a suspended sentence, allowing Nacagilevu an opportunity to reform and support his family.
This case ties into wider issues regarding drug-related offenses in Fiji, reflecting similar concerns raised in other cases. For instance, Kitione Draunidalo, another recent case, highlighted the impact of drug cultivation on community health and access to drugs. These incidents underscore a growing urgency to address drug cultivation and its societal repercussions.
Nacagilevu’s suspended sentence indicates a judicial preference for rehabilitation over purely punitive actions. With the right support, individuals like him can redefine their futures, contributing positively to their families and communities. This case embodies the importance of second chances, illustrating that pathways to reform and a better life are possible.
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