A 39-year-old farmer has been sentenced to 24 years in prison after being convicted of repeatedly raping his 15-year-old stepdaughter in Labasa. The victim bravely shared her story through a heartfelt letter read in court, expressing the profound betrayal she felt from someone she considered a father figure. Her words were filled with pain as she described how the man ruined her life and dreams, stating, “You made me pregnant. You ruined my life, my dreams, and the things I wanted to achieve in life.”
The abuse, which started in 2020 when the girl was just 11, escalated over the years, taking place while her mother was away selling produce. The case came to light after the victim gave birth in June 2024. The man denied his paternity and attempted to discredit her claims, labeling her a liar.
The High Court’s Justice Lee James Burney emphasized the importance of holding the perpetrator accountable, referring to his actions as a gross breach of trust. He underscored the pressing need for rehabilitation programs during the man’s incarceration. In his statement, Justice Burney remarked on the significant emotional impact that such heinous crimes have on victims and the need for societal denunciation of sexual offences against minors.
This case stands as a stark reminder of the critical issues of sexual abuse of minors within familial settings. The judiciary’s firm stance on accountability and protection of vulnerable individuals is vital in fostering a more secure and just society. The sentence reflects a commitment to victim protection and acknowledges the lasting trauma these crimes impose on the lives of young victims. The young victim’s courage in coming forward should be seen as a beacon of hope, inspiring others to speak out against abuse.