IN THE SUPREME COURT OF TONGA
CRIMINAL JURISDCITION 
NUKU’ALOFA REGISTRY		

CR 136 of 2025

REX 

-V-

SALOTE LEKI

RECORD OF ARRAIGNMENT AND SENTENCING

BEFORE:		
HON. JUSTICE PAUL GARLICK KC

Appearance:		
Mr. L Vaea for the Prosecution
Mr. T Naufahu for the Defendant

Date:			
16 September 2025

Proceedings
1.	The Defendant was present today for arraignment on the charges outlined in the Indictment.
2.	The Defendant pleaded guilty to the sole charge against her.
3.	The Presiding Judge informed the Defense Counsel that he was prepared to impose a suspended sentence on the Defendant and advised counsel to consult with his client on whether she wished to proceed with sentencing. 
4.	Defense counsel informed the Court that his client wished to be sentenced and Prosecution had no objections to this.

Sentencing
1.	The Court proceeded with the sentencing of the Defendant as follows:
a.	The starting point for the offence is 12 months imprisonment.
b.	Due to the Defendant’s early guilty plea, the sentence is reduced to 8 months imprisonment. 
c.	The sentence is fully suspended on the following probation conditions for a period of 2 years:
i.	The Defendant shall not commit any offence punishable by imprisonment.
ii.	The Defendant shall be placed under probation for 2 years.
iii.	The Defendant shall comply with all directions issued by the Probation Officer regarding other probationary conditions, including residence during the probation period.
iv.	The Defendant is required to complete a course in life skills training.
v.	The Defendant must report to the Probation Office within 48 hours.

This is the sentence of the Court.

NUKU’ALOFA				          

HON. JUSTICE PAUL GARLICK KC
JUDGE

16 September 2025