State v Murti - Judgment [2010] FJHC 496; HAC195.2010 (10 November 2010)

IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI AT SUVA
CRIMINAL JURISDICTION

Criminal Case No: HAC195 of 2010

STATE

V

KADALI SURYANAYANARA MURTI

Hearing: 1 – 8 November 2010
Judgment: 10 November 2010

Counsel: Ms S. Tagivakatini for State
Ms N. Nawasaitoga & Mr. S. Waqainabete for Accused

JUDGMENT

[1] The assessors have expressed unanimous opinions of guilty on all eight counts against the accused. I direct myself in accordance with the law and the evidence contained in my summing up. I closely observed the demeanour of the complainants when they gave evidence. They struck me to be genuine and truthful witnesses. I also observed the demeanour of the accused when he was cross- examined on his evidence.

[2] In my judgment the accused did not give truthful evidence. I accept the complainants' evidence and I reject the accused's evidence. I am satisfied of the accused's guilt on each count beyond reasonable doubt. Accordingly, I accept the opinions of the assessors and convict the accused of all eight counts.

Daniel Goundar
JUDGE

At Suva
10 November 2010

Solicitors:
Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for State
Office of the Legal Aid Commission for Accused