THREE juveniles convicted of stealing several pieces of sporting equipment from a school in Nadi, have had their two-year imprisonment terms suspended for seven years.
The juveniles, aged 14 and 15, pleaded guilty to one count each of aggravated burglary and theft for stealing two soccer balls, four rugby balls, and one volleyball net on October 19, 2024.
Court records show that the boys fully cooperated with police when taken in for questioning and were subsequently charged, rather than attempting to circumvent the course of justice.
The juveniles told the court they were truly remorseful for their actions, assured the court they would not reoffend, and expressed their willingness to reform and lead productive lives.
Justice Riyaz Hamza, sitting in the High Court in Lautoka, heard that the juveniles aspire to become a MasterChef and a professional rugby player, respectively.
Justice Hamza has also ordered that the boys be put under probation of the Social Welfare Department (SWD) for a period of two years.
“The (SWD) is to immediately arrange for counselling to be provided to you in the presence of your parents,” ordered the judge last month.
“The (SWD) is to provide all necessary assistance, support, and counselling to your parents, so that they improve their parenting skills towards you.
“It is also the responsibility of your parents to ensure that you obey any directions given by (Department).”
