A 54-year-old man has received a life sentence after being convicted of multiple counts of rape and sexual assault against his 15-year-old step-granddaughter, who has special needs. The case was brought before the Suva High Court, where it was revealed that the man had repeatedly assaulted the victim, especially when she was a student in Year 9 at a special needs hospital.
The court’s findings indicated that the heinous acts were not isolated incidents but occurred on numerous occasions, displaying a pattern of abuse marked by threats, violence, and a severe breach of familial trust. Testimonies described the victim being subjected to physical abuse, including punching and beatings, and being forced to undress while continually being threatened with death if she spoke out about the abuse.
The consequences of the sexual assaults were grave, with the victim becoming pregnant and giving birth at the young age of 15. In his ruling, Justice Daniel Goundar emphasized the tragically common occurrence of such abuses within familial settings.
The judge sentenced the man to life imprisonment for each count of rape and an additional ten years for each count of sexual assault, all of which will be served concurrently. Justice Goundar’s decision reflects a strong stance against the exploitation of minors, particularly within their own families, underscoring the need for systemic changes to protect vulnerable individuals in society.
This case adds to the troubling trend of familial sexual abuse cases in Suva, highlighting the necessity for greater awareness and preventive measures to protect children from such violations. The court’s decisive action serves as a reminder that society must remain vigilant in safeguarding its most vulnerable members, particularly those unable to defend themselves.