DPP to review the acquittal of elderly couple charged with rape

The Director of Public Prosecutions is reviewing the case of a couple acquitted of rape charges by Judge Justice Salesi Temo.

The case of the 60-year-old man and woman who were charged in relation to the rape of a 14-year-old girl and the findings of the judge will be reviewed and the final decision will be made by the Director of Public Prosecutions.

This was highlighted by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions when asked by Fijivillage if they will review the case taking into account that there could be a case of prostitution and defilement as the girl was 14-years-old.

Justice Temo had said in his judgement that the girl had told the court that prior to the alleged incident, the accused man and her agreed to have sex for $20.

He had also stated that the 14-year-old girl had admitted in court that she lied to the Police because she was scared.

The 60-year-old man was charged with two counts of rape, one count of indecently annoying a person and one count of sexual assault.

The 60-year-old woman was charged with aiding and abetting the offence of rape.

The Office of the DPP says that they review all cases concluded in the courts to decide whether an appeal is warranted or whether other charges should be laid.