26 Nov 2013

Fiji judge says strong message must be given with rape sentences

11:06 am on 26 November 2013

A judge in Fiji who sentenced a man yesterday for 16 years' jail for raping his daughter says a strong message needs to be sent on rape.

Fiji Village reports the 50-year-old father from Ovalau, who pleaded guilty to two counts of rape and indecently assaulting his 19-year-old daughter, was sentenced by High Court judge Justice Salesi Temo.

The crimes were committed between 2008 to and 2010.

Justice Temo says there were aggravating factors, including a breach of parental trust, and threatening to kill the victim if she raised the alarm.

He says this kind of offence is becoming more common in Fiji and severe sentences are needed as warnings to offenders.

Fiji Village reports a non-parole period of 15 years was set.