A man has been sentenced to 26 months imprisonment in absentia for indecently assaulting a 17-year-old girl in 2015.
In his sentence, Nausori Magistrate Shageeth Somaratne has set a non‑parole period of 20 months.
He said that since the man is absconding, this sentence is to be activated from the date of his apprehension.
The man was on bail and was allowed to travel to New Zealand last year for some employment matter.
It was heard in court that from that time he failed to attend court and the prosecution confirmed that the man is still out of the country.
Magistrate Somaratne said it appears the man is absconding from the court to avoid this case.
It was heard in court that the victim was a salesperson and the man was her boss.
On 5th December 2015, while the girl was working in the shop, the man touched her breasts and also kissed her lips.
She reported the matter to the Police.
