An Australian obstetrician and gynaecologist, Dr. Andrew Robert Brewin, appeared in the Suva Magistrate’s Court to face charges of criminal trespass and assault causing actual bodily harm. Dr. Brewin, who is employed at the Colonial War Memorial Hospital, was represented by lawyer Abhishek Patel from Patel Skiba Lawyers, while the prosecution was led by Tomasi Senimoli from the Police Prosecutions Office.
The alleged victim in the incident is Jeff Larson, the managing director of the Nanuku Resort in Galoa. After the court session, Dr. Brewin was granted bail under strict conditions, which include posting a $500 bail bond, surrendering his passport, and complying with a stop departure order to prevent him from leaving Fiji.
During the hearing, Mr. Patel requested that media coverage of the case be limited, suggesting that public attention could jeopardize Dr. Brewin’s professional standing and relationships with his patients. However, Magistrate Sufia Hamza rejected this request, emphasizing the necessity of transparency in the judicial process.
The next hearing is scheduled for November 25 at the Navua Magistrate’s Court. This case underscores the intricate legal challenges faced by professionals in the healthcare field and the judicial system’s dedication to thoroughly addressing such serious allegations. The hope remains that these proceedings will foster a constructive dialogue regarding justice and the maintenance of professional integrity within the medical community.