Father and son get suspended sentence for bodily harm [1]
Wednesday, August 12, 2020 - 17:14. Updated on Wednesday, August 12, 2020 - 17:15.
Tu’amelie Tolu (42) and his son Paea (17) received suspended prison sentences for seriously injuring a man, whom they repeatedly kicked causing him to loose two of his teeth at Popua.
On July 7, both men pleaded guilty at the Supreme Court to one count each of causing serious bodily harm to Kapuihilani Longani on December 10, 2019.
The Crown submitted the aggravating factors apart from the seriousness of the offence, was that the victim was punched on the ear from the back by Paea.
Both accused kicked the victim while he was lying defenceless on the ground resulting in the loss of his two teeth.
In addition, the victim was beaten in public and was humiliated in front of his family and neighbourhood, said the Crown.
Hon. Mr Justice Cato on August 7 sentenced both to 12-months imprisonment each. This was fully suspended on conditions, that they are placed on probation and must carry out 70 hours of community work. The teenaged son is required to attend an anger management course, among other requirements.
The accused who from Popua had no previous convictions.