Mentally-Impaired Man acquitted, Sent To St Giles

A judge has acquitted a mentally-impaired man, but has ordered that he be detained at the St Giles Hospital until it is suitable for him to be released.

This was Justice Chamath Morais’ verdict after acquitting Ritesh Maharaj Sharma of the attempted murder of his close friend. Sharma was represented by Mark Anthony.

In delivering his judgment, Justice Morais told the court that Sharma and the victim had been good friends with the complainant for more than 10 years.

He further stated under the analysis, that the victim confirmed Sharma had stabbed him without a reason.

Justice Morais then mentioned another crucial witness who was the Acting Medical Superintendent at the St Giles Hospital in Suva. The medical profession clarified that if Sharma had stabbed the victim without a reason, it was a clear sign that he was mentally-impaired.

“Though the majority of the assessors opined the accused to be guilty of attempted murder, I regret that I cannot agree with their opinion,” Justice Morais said.

“I am convinced that the accused has stabbed the victim due to his mental impairment.”

Edited by Ranoba Baoa

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