Man who raped his 13 year old neighbor given 13 year jail term

A man who raped and sexually assaulted his 13-year-old neighbour in the Western Division in 2019 has been given a 13-year jail term.

While sentencing the man, Lautoka High Court Judge, Justice Aruna Aluthge says the 34-year-old man breached the girl's trust.

Justice Aluthge says the man exploited the vulnerability of the girl when her parents were away.

The Judge further says the psychological impact on the girl is enormous and his offence made her life miserable.

A non-parole period of 10 years has been set.