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)}}{\*\pnseclvl6\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl7\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl8 \pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\pnseclvl9\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par AT LABASA \par APPELLATE JURISDICTION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO.: }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 HAA00}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 20 OF 2002}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 BETWEEN}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 : \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 APPELLANT}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 AND}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 :}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 CHANDRA SEN DEO}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 s/o}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Shiu Lakhan}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 RESPONDENT}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Mrs A. Neelta}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 - }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Counsel for the Appellant \par In Person}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 - }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Respondent}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par This is an appeal by the Land Transport Authority against the decision of Labasa Magistrate\rquote s Court delivered on 27}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 June 2002 whereby the respondent was discharged under Section 201(2)(b)(ii) of the Criminal Procedure Code.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The learned Magistrate also refused costs to the Appellant. \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 FACTS \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The Respondent had been charged with the offence of Driving Unregistered Motor Vehicle Contrary to Section 49(1) and (3) and Section 114 of the Land Transport Act 1998.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The particulars of offence were that }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Chandra Sen Deo on the 12th day of May 2002 at Savusavu in the Northern Division drove light goods vehicle along Savusavu town when such vehicle had not been duly licensed (or paid)} {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 . \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par The respondent admitted the facts as charged and additionally that the vehicle was unlicensed for five months.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He was convicted. \par \par In mitigation the respondent told the court that his vehicle had been detained by police in Savusavu from January to March for a criminal case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He took it back in March.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He took the vehicle for fitness on 9}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 May 2002 but vehicle did not pass the tests so he took it on 13}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 May 2002 when he was booked. \par \par After conviction the learned Magistrate discharged him under Section 201(2)(b)(II) of the Criminal Procedure Code. \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 GROUNDS OF APPEAL \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard\plain \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 that the l earned Magistrate erred in law and fact by discharging the respondent under Section 201(2)(b)(11) of the Criminal Procedure Code Cap 21 when no such application was made by the Prosecutor for the respondent to be discharged. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 that the Magistrate erred in l aw and in fact when he used his discretion to discharge the respondent when no such discretion was available to the Court when the penalty is fixed by Law. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 That the appellant is a body corporate under the Land Transport Act 1998 and has to pay court fees to institute proceedings, which is in the sum of $11.00. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (d)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 That the learned Magistrate erred in law and facts in failing to act judicially in the exercise of his discretion to decline the award of the said cost and expenses.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (e)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls1\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls1\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 That the appellant says that they are entitled to recover their cost of the action. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par Section 201 of the Criminal Procedure Code reads as follows}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 :}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 (1)\tab The prosecutor may with the consent of the Court at any time before a final order is passed in any case under this Part withdraw the complaint. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (2)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-660\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls2\pnrnot0\pndec\pnstart2\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls2\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 On any withdrawal as foresaid \endash \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 where the withdrawal is made after the accused person is called upon to make his defence, the court shall acquit the accused. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li2160\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls3\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls3\adjustright\rin0\lin2160\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Where the withdrawal is made before the accused person is called upon to make his defence, the court shall subject to the provisions of section 210, in its discretion make one or other of the following orders}{ \b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 :}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (i)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li2880\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls4\pnrnot0\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls4\adjustright\rin0\lin2880\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 an order acquitting the accused; \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlcont\ilvl0\ls0\pnrnot0\pndec }\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544\charrsid4726544 \par {\pntext\pard\plain\s15 \b\i\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (ii)\tab}}\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li2880\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls4\pnrnot0\pnlcrm\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls4\adjustright\rin0\lin2880\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 an order discharging the accused.}{ \b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 This Section was obviously not open to the learned Magistrate.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The section is available at any time before the }{ \b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 final order is passed}{\b\i\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 . \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par Here the learned Magistrate not only convicted the respondent but also by way of sentence discharged him.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The final order of the court is the sentence after which the court is functus.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Under Section 201 a prosecutor at any time before sentence is passed can withdraw the complaint.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 There was no such application for withdrawal from the prosecutor so the learned Magistrate could not have discharged the respondent under Section 201 of Criminal Procedure Code. \par \par The learned Magistrate probably had Section 44 of the Penal Code in mind when he discharged the respondent after convicting him.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Section 44 of the Penal Code reads as follows}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par \par }\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 (1)\tab Where a court by or before which a person is found guilty of an offence, }{\b\i\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 not being an offence for which a fixed sentence is prescribed}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 by law, is of opinion, having regard to the circumstances including the nature of the offence and the character of the offender, that it is inexpedient to inflict punishm ent and that a probation order under the Probation of Offenders Act is not appropriate, the court may, with or without proceeding}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 to conviction, make an order discharging him absolutely, or, if the court thinks fit, discharging him subject to the condition that he commits no offence during such period, not exceeding twelve months from the date of the order, and subject to such other conditions, if any, including the payment of costs or compensation, or the restitution of goods or the payment of money in li eu of goods, as may be specified in such order.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par The appellant submits that a discharge under Section 44 of the Penal Code is not open to the court, as the penalty is one fixed by law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 It relies upon }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Land Transport Authority v. Eroni Volavola}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 \endash Criminal Appeal HAA0}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 066 of 2002S in support of its contention.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 In }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Eroni Volavola}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 the respondent was charged under Section 51 and 87 of the Land Transport (Traffic) Regulations 2000 and not under Land Transport Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The penalty for offence under Section 51 is provided under Land Transport (Fees and Penalties) Regulations 2000 and the fixed penalty is two demerit points and a fine of $70.00 and the maximum penalty is three demerit points and a fine of $500.00 in default three months imprisonment. \par \par The fixed penalty is an extra judicial system of penalty.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 There is no conviction by the court before such penalties are paid.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Those who pay fixed penalties do not appear before a Magistrate or a Court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 } {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The whole concept of Traffic Infringement Notices and fixed penalties is for purpose of expeditious despatch of minor infringements of traffic laws.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 It is also for the convenience of the public because it is not even necessary that the person booked himself go and pay the penalty.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He/she can send any one else to pay the penalty on his/her behalf.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The fixed penalty is paid at the }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 Office of LTA and not in court.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par \par A person who has been issued with a Traffic Infringement Notice has a choice.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He can either pay the fixed penalty or elect to go to court where he can either plead guilty or not guilty.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He/she would, if convicted, be sentenced by the court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Once a person has elected to be tried by a court and if convicted, the Magistrate would sentence him/her after mitigation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The Magistrate has a discretion to impose any form of sentence he deems fit in the circumstances of the case.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 There is no minimum fixed penalty in such a situation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 A Magistrate can fine him if he wishes to a sum below the fixed penalty, which a person would have paid, if he had elected not to come to court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He can fine him any sum up to the maximum depending on circumstances of offence and the offender. \par \par The case of }{\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 State v. Alifereti Nakautoga}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 \endash Criminal Appeal HAA0}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 130 of 1997 dealt with the peculiar circumstances under the Dangerous Drugs Act where a minimum mandatory sentence of imprisonment was prescribed by law and a court could not impose a sentence below that regardless of the circumstances.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 It is in such circumstances where a minimum mandatory sentence is prescribed that Justice Pain considered that Section 44 of the Penal Code could not be invoked in sentencing an accused. \par \par I am therefore of the view that a discharge under Section 44 of the Penal Code is open to a court in the present case, because there is no fixed penalty prescribed once a person has elected to come to court.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Only the maximum penalty is prescribed not the minimum. \par \par The respondent is charged for committing an offence under Section 47(3) of the Act.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Section 114(1) which deals penalties reads}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The penalties prescribed in the third column of the schedule are prescribed as the }{\b\i\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 maximum}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 penalties against the sections of the Act respectively mentioned.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par There is no fixed minimum for this offence so the learned Magistrate had the option to sentence the respondent as he deemed fit including discharging the respondent.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Having said that a discharge is open to a court, one must still not lose sight of requirements of section 44 which must be satisfied before a court exercises its discretion.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The factors to consider are}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 :}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par \par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (a)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls5\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls5\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 the nature of offence \par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (b)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls5\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls5\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 the circumstances of offender \par {\pntext\pard\plain\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (c)\tab}}\pard \ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\widctlpar{\*\pn \pnlvlbody\ilvl0\ls5\pnrnot0\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent360\pnsp120\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\ls5\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 that probation order under Probation of Offenders Act is not appropriate. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par The learned Magistrate probably considered that a discharge following conviction was appropriate as he may be of the view that conviction by itself was a sufficient penalty. \par \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 COSTS \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 At the conclusion of the case the prosecution asked for $11.00 costs, which is the filing fee.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The learned Magistrate said: }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Costs refused.}{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Have discharged accused.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 No reason why he should pay costs.}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\b\i\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par The Land Transport Authority is a statutory body given powers to enforce traffic laws of this country.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 It files numerous cases in courts throughout the country and has to pay filing fees in court.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 It incurs these costs in the conduct of the statutory duties imposed on it by Parliament in the public interest.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 Costs for the Authority therefore are important factor in prosecuting offenders. \par \par The relevant provision relating to costs is section 158(1) of the Criminal Procedure Code, Cap 21.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 It reads}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 :}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par \par }\pard\plain \s16\ql \li720\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4726544 \b\i\f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 It shall be lawful for a judge of the High Cou rt or any magistrate to order any person convicted before him of an offence or discharged by him without conviction under the provisions of Section 44 of the Penal Code, to pay to a public or private prosecutor such reasonable costs as to such judge or ma gistrate may seem fit, in addition to any other penalty imposed.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 "}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par }\pard\plain \s15\ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 \f1\fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The section gives the court a discretion to award costs.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 An exercise of discretion is a judicial act.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The learned Magistrate felt that since he had discharged the accused, no costs should be awarded.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He did not even refer to Section 158 of the Criminal Procedure Code, which suggests that even in a case of absolute discharge without conviction costs may be ordered.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 There is nothing on the record to show that the Authority acted unreasonably either in booking or in the conduct of the case.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 In fact the respondent had an alternative avenue open to him.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He knew his vehicle was not licensed.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He should have applied to the Authority for a permit to drive an unregistered vehicle on a public street for purpose of taking it to an authorized office for inspection \endash see Section 4(1)(d) of the Land Transport/Vehicle Registration and Construction/Regulations 2000.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 He chose not to do that resulting in the Authority having to file this action.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The appellant is a statutory body, which has incurred the filing fees, and it is entitled to those costs unless the respondent shows good cause to the contrary.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The appellant is entitled to the costs of filing in Magistrate\rquote s Court which is $11.00 and $22.00 filing fees on appeal that is a total of $33.00.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The respondent is ordered to pay $33.00 costs to the appellant within seven (7) days.}{ \f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The final order therefore are that the respondent\rquote s discharge after conviction remains unaltered albeit under Section 44 of the Penal Code.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 The respondent is to pay5 $33.00 costs to the appellant.}{\f0\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 \par \par }\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \{ Jiten Singh \} \par JUDGE \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4726544 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 \par At Labasa \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4726544 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16455726\charrsid4726544 November 2002 \par }}