Republic v Yeeon [2003] KIHC 128; Criminal Case 32 of 2003 (28 October 2003)

IN THE HIGH COURT OF KIRIBATI
CRIMINAL JURISDICTION
HELD AT BETIO
REPUBLIC OF KIRIBATI

Criminal Case No. 32 of 2003

THE REPUBLIC

vs

TIAEKITIN YEEON

For the Republic: Ms Ruria Iteraera
For the Accused: Ms Jacqueline Huston

Date of Hearing: 27 October 2003

SENTENCE

Tiaekitin Yeeon: you have pleaded guilty to abduction. That is a crime which has a maximum penalty of two years' imprisonment and a fine.

It happened in May 2002. You were then 35 or 36 years old. Your wife was dead. You had six children. You were looking for a new wife. You had begun paying attention to Nei Meera. The girl was only 15 but you believed her to be older. You wanted to make her your wife.

You and she went away together in the bush overnight and had consensual intercourse. In the morning Nei Meera went home.

Since this happened you have settled with another woman who has in the last month borne you your seventh child.

You have pleaded guilty. This is your first offence. In fixing penalty I take both these matters into account in your favour.

Ms Huston has asked that I impose a fine: she went further and suggested a fine of $100 to be paid at the rate of $10 per month. Miss Iteraera, prosecuting, did not oppose a fine.

You are fined $100.00

Dated the 27^th day of October 2003

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After discussion with counsel, I recall the order made yesterday imposing a fine of $100.00. Instead you will be released on a written promise to be of good behaviour for 12 months. If you commit any offence within the next 12 months then you will have to pay $100.00. Do you understand that? Do you agree?

Dated the 28^th day of October 2003

THE HON ROBIN MILLHOUSE QC
Chief Justice