Wife basher escapes jail term

A 27 year old man of Lami was lucky to be only fined $450 after he pleaded guilty to criminal intimidation, damaging property and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

The court was told that on 1st June this year, Iliesa Ratuva threatened his wife with a cane knife, caused damaged to some of her belongings and assaulted her.

Magistrate Nanise Ratakele told Ratuva that the maximum sentence for these offences is total of 12 years imprisonment however Ratuva is a first offender and pleaded guilty in first given opportunity and saved court's time.

He has to pay his fine in 60 days or be remanded for about two months.

Court will review on 4th October whether Ratuva has paid his fine.

A restraining order and $1000 bound over for 12 months has been issued against him.

Story by: Ronal Deo