Republic v Aata [2014] KIHC 26; Criminal Case 52.2011 (4 July 2014)

IN THE HIGH COURT OF KIRIBATI 2014

CRIMINAL CASE NO. 52 OF 2011

BETWEEN

THE REPUBLIC
PROSECUTOR

AND

TEIKORI AATA
ACCUSED

Before: Hon Chief Justice Sir John Muria

4 July 2014

Ms Tewiia Tawita for Prosecutor
Ms Fuatino Noa for Accused

SENTENCE

Muria CJ: You have pleaded guilty to indecent assault upon a 13-year old girl who is our distant relative.

You took advantage of her when you asked her to go and call your girl friend. The seriousness of what you did lies in the fact that the victim was only 13 years old at the time and you were 20 years old.

You pleaded guilty and this considerably saves you from a harsher sentence that the Court could have imposed on you. I bear in mind the case authorities cited by Counsel. But each case depends on its own facts. In your case the appropriate sentence is one of custodial sentence.

I bear in mind all that had been said on your behalf and having done so, I feel a sentence of four months imprisonment is appropriate.

ORDER: Sentenced to four months imprisonment to be served.

Dated the 4th day of July 2014

SIR JOHN MURIA
Chief Justice