Suspended sentence for soldier who needs to learn anger management [1]
Tuesday, August 18, 2020 - 21:06
Paea he Lotu Sika (25) was sentenced to 18-months imprisonment, which was fully suspended for seriously injuring Hopoate Teisina at Vaini in 2018.
Hon. Mr Justice Cato convicted Paea He Lotu Sika, and acquitted his soldier co-accused, after hearing evidence in a trial on June 18.
The accused was charged that he caused harm to the complainant when he repeatedly punched and kicked him, fracturing his jaw.
On November 4, 2018 at around 8:00am members of His Majesty's Armed Forces (HMAF) were returning from Nuku'alofa to Taliai Military Camp at Fua’amotu, after attending a flag raising ceremony to commemorate Tupou I Day.
They travelled in two buses. When the two buses reached Vaini, in front of Beulah College the complainant, and another male were stopping vehicles in the middle of the road.
The accused got off the bus and this is where the offence took place.
The judge in sentencing the accused last month to 18-months imprisonment, fully suspended it. This was on conditions that he must not commit any offences punishable by imprisonment, must carry out 60 hours community and undergo a course on Anger Management.
In addition, he was ordered to pay a compensation of $2,000 into Court which is to be paid to the complainant.
The accused was warned that a failure by the terms of the suspension may mean that he has to return to serve his sentence.