The sentencing of suspended Police officer, Kusal Kumar, who was found guilty of rape has been adjourned to November 28 (next Tuesday).

A huge crowd comprising family, relatives, well-wishers, and friends were present at the High Court in Labasa yesterday.

The case was supposed to be called and the sentence to be delivered by Judge Justice, Thushara Kumarage, via Skype.

Kumar is charged with one count of rape of a secondary school student at a settlement in Labasa.

The alleged incident happened on January 29, 2022, when the victim was 17 years old. State prosecutor, Estin Thaggard, told the court to renounce bail and for the accused to be kept in Police custody.

The aggravating and mitigating submissions have been made respectively and both lawyers are now waiting for the final sentencing verdict.

Attempts by family members to stop the media from taking pictures and videos were unsuccessful.

There was tight security with escorting Police officers on standby.

Key points leading to the guilty decision

The medical report and testimony by the victim were key to this case and the court deemed it impressive.

The court rejected the argument of the defence and was not satisfied with Kumar’s testimony.

Story by: sampras.anand@fijisun.com.fj