Rex v Latu [2012] TOSC 44; CR 139 of 2012 (2 November 2012)

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF TONGA
CRIMINAL JURISDICTION
NUKU'ALOFA REGISTRY

CR 139 of 2012

REX

V

MAKA LATU

BEFORE THE HON. JUSTICE CATO

SUMMARY OF SENTENCE DELIVERED ORALLY.

The prisoner pleaded guilty to one count of house breaking (commercial premises) and one count of theft.

In all about $7390.00 worth of merchandise

The prisoner had previous convictions for armed robbery in 2004 for which he had been sentenced to 6 year imprisonment with 2 and half years suspended. He had remained out of prison since about 2006.

He was aged 26 – had a bad background of family criminal offending – he indicated a desire to reform – drug and alcohol problems throughout his life

Early guilty pleas - apology

SENTENCE

Housebreaking - 2 years 9 months imprisonment with last nine months suspended on the following conditions;

1. he commit no further crimes punishable by imprisonment for a period of 18 months;
   
2. probation for 6 months;
   
   1. live where directed by probation officer;
      
   2. not drink alcohol or consume drugs for a period of 6 months;
      
   100. undergo drug and alcohol course with Salvation Army;
        

Theft – 6 months concurrent

Backdated to time of remand in custody on present offending.

DATED: 2 NOVEMBER 2012

JUDGE