Couple convicted of incest have same father [1]
Friday, July 23, 2021 - 15:51. Updated on Saturday, July 24, 2021 - 03:31.
A couple who have the same father have been placed on good behaviour for two-years, after they were convicted of incest at the Nuku’alofa Supreme Court.
Hon. Mr Justice Cooper convicted them in a trial held in March earlier this year.
The court heard they had been living together and have children together. They have the same father as reflected on their birth certificates and they admitted to the offence in their police interview.
The judge said that a report of the Guardian ad Litem attached with medical reports from the doctor regarding each child made clear that, as far as they are able to tell with the medical facilities in Tonga, the children are all very healthy.
“The conclusion I reach is that given the close family unit they have; especially that they care for the children who are still at school and have promoted a happy and settled life for all the children they provide for, then it would be inappropriate to sentence them to imprisonment.”
“In addition, a suspended sentence cannot be passed as their relationship meant they would be in breach and probation is not appropriate,” he said.
The judge then made an order under section 198 Criminal Offences Act, that they be placed on good behaviour for two-years, with neither recognisance nor surety required.