13 years in prison for rapist

A man who raped his 12-year-old cousin in her home was sentenced to 13 years and seven months in prison by the High Court in Suva last week.

The court heard that the victim was living with her uncle in the village when the convicted man turned up at her apartment when no one was there and committed the crime.

“Rape is one of the most degrading and painful crimes,” said Judge Thushara Rajasinghe.

“When a child is the victim, it becomes even more serious, so I consider a rape of this kind to be a serious crime.

“For crimes of this kind, a harsh and lengthy prison sentence is essential to demonstrate the seriousness of the crime and to show that society unreservedly condemns such crimes.”

Citing the victim’s statement, Justice Rajasinghe said the young girl had suffered considerable hardship due to the trauma.

“I see no mitigating value in your previous character.

A restraining order was issued against the man for domestic violence.

He will serve a non-parole sentence of 11 years and 7 months.