Mum spared jail term

A RAKIRAKI mother facing a manslaughter charge arising out of a breach of duty was spared a jail term by the High Court in Lautoka.

Reapi Namosimalua had left her two-year-eightmonth-old son in the care of a 12-year-old child on September 11, 2021, at Malake Island in Rakiraki, during which time the toddler fell into the sea and drowned.

“Ms Namosimalua you have committed a serious offence, whilst you will no doubt carry the scar of losing your child forever as a result of your negligence, it cannot be ignored that an innocent life has been lost which could have been avoided,” said Justice Sunil Sharma in his March 14 ruling.

“Parental responsibility and legal responsibility go hand in hand, and any breaches will have serious consequences.

“I am mindful of your remorse and the fact that you have endured anxiety and shame, the stigma and regret is obvious to me.

“This tragedy would have been avoided had you exercised restraint and common sense by not leaving your child under the care of another child.

“He was your child and you had the responsibility of care and control. No amount of repentance will bring back the victim.

“Being a young mother it would have been difficult for you to get over your loss and the fact that you have looked after your other two children without any difficulties is a testament of the fact that you are a good mother and you have learned from your mistake.

“This court will give you a second chance to get your life in order with a suspended sentence.”

Ms Namosimalua’s jail sentence of two years and 11 months is suspended for three years.