Republic v Titera [2010] KIHC 12; Criminal Case 52 of 2009 (2 February 2010)

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

High Court Criminal Case 52 of 2009

THE REPUBLIC

V

TEENATI TITERA

For the Republic: Ms Pauline Beiatau
For the Accused: Mr Banuera Berina

Date of Hearing: 2 February 2010

SENTENCE

Teenati Titera: you have pleaded guilty to dangerous driving. You are a police constable but under suspension since the incident. On 15 August last year when you were drunk you drove a police mini bus off the road at Bonriki and into the lagoon. No one was injured but no doubt the bus must have been damaged by its immersion in the water. The most serious aspects are that you a police officer were drunk on duty and that you drove while you were drunk.

In your favour is that you have no previous convictions and that you have pleaded guilty.

You are 33 years old, married with five young children. You have been the provider for the family. You are still to appear before the Police Disciplinary Board. Mr Berina says that you have given up drinking and changed your way of life.

Mr Berina has asked that you be fined rather than given a sentence of imprisonment even if suspended. Ms Beiatau has not opposed this.

You will be fined $500.00.

Time to pay: 3 months. In default 3 months’ imprisonment.

Dated the 3rd day of February 2010

THE HON ROBIN MILLHOUSE QC
Chief Justice