Two people who pleaded guilty to possession of methamphetamine at Hofoa in 2018 received suspended sentences, at the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court today.

'Alapasita Sakopo (35) pleaded guilty to possession of two packs of meth which weighed 0.38 gram.

Kisepi Havea (31) pleaded guilty to possession of one pack of meth, weighing 0.11 gram.

Both accused were arrested on December 22, 2018 at Pangi Puloka's place.

Hon. Mr Justice Niu sentenced Sakopo to two-years imprisonment, which was suspended for two and a half years.

Havea was sentenced to six-months imprisonment suspended for one-year.

These sentences are based on conditions they do not commit any offences within their period of suspension.

Sentence

Hon. Justice Niu said all illicit drugs, including meth and cannabis, are a curse to all societies throughout the world. “It's terrible effect comes home to us with the spread of COVID-19 that we now face”.

He said Sakopo was so addicted she just became useless as a mother, let alone a wife.

She even left her husband and children and parents to live elsewhere so that she could freely carry on her trade as dealer.

The judge said for Havea, he was caught in December 2018 and in March 2019 and again in February this year.

But whereas Sakopo was totally unable to continue to work, Havea continued to work and maintained his commitments to work and to family, he said.

However, during sentencing, he considered that Sakopo was still of a young age and of disposition to rehabilitate herself, despite previous convictions.

“Havea, I consider that by your admission have taken drugs twice since you were caught with the meth for which you are now sentenced, but I must not sentence you for that. I must deal with you as a first offender such as the Crown and probation officer intimated.”

He is single, living at home with his mother and younger siblings whom he helps with their maintenance and schooling, said the judge.

“I trust that you are both now aware of the seriousness of the possession and use of drugs and that you will both keep yourselves clear of them from today for the rest of your lives.”