38-year-old Savenaca Damuni, the father of the late six-year-old boy, has been sentenced to 2 years and 8 months imprisonment, but will serve a partial term of 6 months.
Damuni earlier admitted to hitting his son with the forklift, causing injuries that later led to the child’s death.
While delivering the sentence, Suva High Court Judge Justice Dane Tuiqereqere says Damuni had failed in his duty as a father.
Justice Tuiqereqere said Damuni’s decision to allow his son to stand on the blade of the forklift was irresponsible, dangerous and reckless.
He says Damuni’s recklessness led to the unnecessary and tragic loss of his son.
Justice Tuiqereqere says the post-mortem report showed that the child died from multiple brain injuries.
He further says the grief and guilt would remain with Damuni for the rest of his life.
The Judge adds that there must be deterrence and consequences for Damuni’s conduct.
Damuni had no licence to operate a forklift and had received no formal training.
He was convicted of one count of manslaughter arising from a breach of duty.
The incident occurred in Vatuwaqa on 2nd May 2023.
