Tavua Couple Found Guilty of Manslaughter
In his judgment, Justice Aluthge said there were admissions by the couple in their caution interviews and their inability to challenge the state’s evidence affirmed its credibility. “The accused were in breach of duty towards the child who has died, the breach of duty caused the death of the child." "That breach of duty should be characterized as gross negligence and therefore as a crime,” Justice Aluthge said.
Thursday 22 February 2024 | 10:00
The High Court in Lautoka convicted the couple Laisiasa Rokobici and Ruci Kalokalo on February 16. Photo: Salote Qalubau
A Tavua couple, found guilty and convicted of manslaughter and unlawful burial of their seven-year-old daughter, will know their fate next Monday.
The High Court in Lautoka convicted the couple on February 16.
Ruci Kalokalo and Laisiasa Rokobici had appeared before Judge Justice Aruna Aluthge representing themselves, while Saini Naibe represented the State prosecution.
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The couple buried their daughter Alanieta Naituva unlawfully in Toko, Tavua between December 1, 2020, and February 23, 2021
The High Court in Lautoka convicted the couple Laisiasa Rokobici and Ruci Kalokalo on February 16. Photo: Salote Qalubau
Judgment
In his judgment, Justice Aluthge said there were admissions by the couple in their caution interviews and their inability to challenge the state’s evidence affirmed its credibility.
“The accused were in breach of duty towards the child who has died, the breach of duty caused the death of the child."
"That breach of duty should be characterized as gross negligence and therefore as a crime,” Justice Aluthge said.
The court heard the offence of manslaughter arising from a breach of duty was proven beyond a reasonable doubt by the prosecution.
Justice Aluthge said for the count of restriction of burial of dead bodies, there was no dispute about the child’s body without informing the relevant authorities.
“They admit that as a result, no death certificate was issued according to the law."
"Their excuse was that they were ignorant that such a law ever existed, ignorance of the law is no excuse,” Justice Aluthge said.
The case was adjourned to February 26 for sentencing.
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