You have exploited sister’s vulnerability: Judge tells rapist

A judge has told a rapist that he had exploited the vulnerability of his biological sister.

High Court Judge Justice Vinsent Perera said this while sentencing an 18-year-old to nine years, eight months and 15 days imprisonment with a non-parole period of five years, eight months and 15 days for rape and sexuall assault. Between August 1, 2018 and August 31, 2018 at Nasinu, the accused had carnal knowledge of his biological sister.

He had also unlawfully and indecently assaulted his biological sister.

The court heard that he was 18 years old, unmarried and reached Year 10 and was engaged in farming before he was sentenced. While sentencing him, Justice Perera said: “In my view, punishment and deterrence should be the main purpose of sentencing you. “It should be made clear to you and other persons with similar impulses that this court and the society denounce your conduct.

“You being the victim’s biological elder brother, there is a serious breach of trust.

“You have used force on the victim to overpower her and exploited the victim’s vulnerability,” he said.

Justice Perera also issued a permanent Domestic Violence Restraining Order against him. Justice Perera ordered him not to have any form of contact with the victim directly or by any other means, unless otherwise directed by the Court.

The accused was given 30 days to appeal to the Fiji Court of Appeal. ASHNA KUMAR