Results for sentencing

Latu Mata’u (43) was sentenced to 34-months imprisonment for serious causing bodily harm to a 21-year-old, whom he injured with a metal pipe while drinking at Veitongo. The sentence was fully suspended due to factors considered by the Supreme Court Judge that resulted in this exception.

‘Isileli and Sofia Tu’ifua (both 27) were sentenced to six-months imprisonment each, after being convicted on joint counts of possessing methamphetamine and cannabis. Their sentences were fully suspended.

A suspended Tonga Police officer ‘Isitolo Sakopo (30) and Kaniteli Guttenbeil (32) were each sentenced to one-year 10-months imprisonment for possession of methamphetamine.

Misivina Tatakamotonga was sentenced to seven-years eight-months imprisonment for possession of illicit drugs, including 99.47 grams of methamphetamine. The judge said it was gravely concerning that the defendant's true activities were not reflected in the indictment and there appeared to be scant investigation into the dealer list. He urged the investigating authorities “to reflect on what lines of enquiry can properly be pursued."

‘Atapani Pangi (33) received a sentence of two-years and four-months imprisonment for possession of 183.3 grams of cannabis, seized at a house in Fo'ui. His co-accused, who owned the house also received a suspended sentence.

Lancellot ‘Amanaki Tae Vailea (32) of Fou’i was sentenced to two-years six-months imprisonment for serious housebreaking and theft of Tongan mats and artifacts valued at $15,100 pa’anga. None of the items were recovered.

Lemoto Lui (45) was sentenced today to four-years imprisonment for two counts of serious indecent assault committed on a young girl in 2020. The judge expressed his concern that in spite of deterrents such offences had not only continued “but they have risen as well.”

The convicted Minister of Infrastructure and Tourism ‘Akosita Lavulavu (36) and her husband ’Etuate (62) will be sentenced on Friday, July 2 at the Nuku’alofa Supreme Court.

Sesilia Uaisele (29) was sentenced to three-months imprisonment for possession of 0.02 grams of methamphetamine, seized in a vehicle at a bus station in Nuku'alofa.