31-year-old Ilaitia Nalawa has been sentenced to 18 years imprisonment after he was convicted of raping a 9-year-old girl in Nakasi in July last year.
Justice Salesi Temo has also set a non-parole period of 17 years.
The presiding judge also said that this type of offence is becoming more prevalent in society.
Justice Temo said Nalawa should not complain if he gets a harsh sentence.
He said Nalawa showed no remorse during the trial and it even led to the victim going to court to relive her ordeal.
The judge also highlighted the great hardship which the family went through.
He said the family changed their location where they were living and the victim has also missed a lot of school.
Justice Temo said sexual offences are topping the criminal list in Fiji and the sentence should be a warning to rapists.
He said the sentences will be increased in the future if more rape cases are brought before the courts.
Nalawa was handed an 18 year sentence for rape, 3 year sentence for assault with intent to rape, 2 year sentence for burglary and 9 month sentence for theft.
The sentences will be served concurrently.
Nalawa has been in remand since 26th July last year.
