The Lautoka High Court has sentenced two 16-year-old juveniles to one year imprisonment, fully suspended for three years, after they pleaded guilty to charges of aggravated burglary and theft.
The offences took place on August 18, 2023 at the home of elderly couple in Votualevu, Nadi.
The juveniles broke into their home and stole $15 in cash and $250 worth of clothing.
Justice Aruna Aluthge acknowledged in his July 31 ruling the increasing trend of burglaries in Fiji and the need for deterrent sentencing.
However, he noted the low harm and low culpability in this case, given the minimal value of stolen items, lack of violence, and the offenders’ young age.
The judge said the burglary was opportunistic, with no premeditation or sophistication, and praised the juveniles’ early guilty pleas and time already spent under welfare supervision.
“In view of their age, remorse, cooperation, and the need for rehabilitation, a suspended sentence is appropriate,” Justice Aluthge stated.
The sentence will be suspended for three years, during which the juveniles will remain on probation under the supervision of a welfare officer.
