Results for From the Courts

A man who raped and indecently assaulted his young daughter in Vava’u has been sentenced to nine and a half-years imprisonment. "The pre-sentence report makes for troubling reading," said the judge. On the day of his trial, the accused changed his pleas to guilty on both the rape and indecent assault allegations, committed some years ago.

Petueli Mafua he Lotu Fifita (25) was sentenced to six-years and four-months imprisonment for dangerous driving causing the death of an 81-year-old grandfather in Ta'anea, Vava'u. He was also banned from driving for two-years, effective from his release from prison.

A dispute over land to determine the legal order of succession of a man who died “intestate” without a will, was heard at the Nuku’alofa Land Court on 26-27 July 2021 by Justice Niu and Assessor Tu‘ifua. Although different Taumoepeau family members had applied for it, the land had reverted to the Crown, and had been re-allocated, while the claims were not lawfully resolved. Justice Niu made orders on 4 October 2021 to cancel a deed of grant and for the Minister of Lands to hear and decide new applications in accordance with the principles of natural justice.

Siaosi Helu (36) was sentenced today to one-year imprisonment for possession 0.04 gram of methamphetamine found hidden inside his underpants, during a routine body search by Police, when arrested for public drunkenness at Fasi.

A claim by 'Ikani L. Taliai against the Ministry of Internal Affairs and others for breach of contract seeking a sum of $140,000 and general damages of $80,000, was dismissed by the Nuku'alofa Supreme Court.

Sione Tupou Tonga (24) received a suspended sentence for serious housebreaking and theft of goods worth $4,200 at a home in Fangaloto, after he had been drinking there. He robbed the house when his host fell asleep.

‘Okusitino Langi (47) who has an extensive criminal history, was sentenced today to six-years three-months imprisonment for possession of substantial illicit drugs, including 43.85 grams of methamphetamine at Hala’ovave. The prosecution said the amount of methamphetamine seized was substantial, 
the dealer bags and other drug-related utensils and cash found indicated a commercial enterprise.

Kepilini Pole’o (28) was sentenced to 16 months-imprisonment for destruction of evidence and possession of 0.13 grams of methamphetamines seized at Vaini. This was fully suspended on conditions.

Retired rugby league star, Manu Vatuvei (35) faces a lengthy prison sentence in New Zealand, after he pleaded guilty yesterday, to the importation of methamphetamine there.