19yr old acquitted of rape

A 19 year old man acquitted of one count rape but convicted on a lesser charge of defilement has been handed down a suspended sentence by the Labasa High Court.

The court heard that Kiniviliame Raovuna went to stay with his relative at Seaqaqa when he came in contact with the victim where he defiled her.

Judge Justice Paul Madigan said that it was quite apparent that Raovuna considered the girl as his girlfriend and there was evidence that the girl was encouraging him over the few days when they were together.

Justice Madigan started his sentence from 12 months but reduced it by 4 months after Raovuna pleaded guilty to the charge.

He then sentenced Raovuna to 8 months imprisonment suspended for two years.


Story by: Ronal Deo