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{\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}\pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par AT SUVA \par APPELLATE JURISDICTION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO: HAA 75 OF 2002S \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Between:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 SEREIMA BOKADI \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Appellant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 And:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 THE STATE \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Respondent \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par Hearing:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646\charrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 25th October 2002 \par Judgment:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646\charrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 29th October 2002 \par \par Counsel:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646\charrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Appellant in Person \par Mr D. Toganivalu for State \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646\charrsid4929646 JUDGMENT}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par The Appellant was convicted on the 26th of July 2002 in the Suva Magistrate\rquote s Court of the following offences: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 FIRST COUNT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 TAKING MOTOR VEHICLE WITHOUT OWNER\rquote S CONSENT}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 : Contrary to Section 100(1) and 114 of the Land Transport Act 35 of 1998. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Particulars of Offence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 SEREIMA BOKADI, on the 13th day of April 2002 at Navua in the Central Division, took and drove away private motor vehicle registration number CX 346 on Queens Road, Batinikia without the consent of the lawful owner ELIKI LOSIONE. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 SECOND COUNT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 DANGEROUS DRIVING}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 : Contrary to Section 98(1) and 114 of the Land Transport Act 35 of 1998. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Particulars of Offence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 SEREIMA BOKADI, on the 13th day of April 2002 at Navua in the Central Division, drove a private motor vehicle on Queens Road, Batinikia in a manner which was dangerous to the public having regards to all the circumstances of the case. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 THIRD COUNT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 DRIVING A MOTOR VEHICLE WITHOUT A DRIVING LICENCE}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 : Contrary to section 56(3}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1798457\charrsid4929646 ) (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 a}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1798457\charrsid4929646 ) (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 6) and 114 of Land Transport Act 35 of 1998. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Particulars of Offence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 SEREIMA BOKADI, on the 13th day of April 2002 at Navua in the Central Division, drove a private motor vehicle registration number CX 346 on Queens Road, Batinikia without being the holder of a driving licence in respect of the said motor vehicle. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 FOURTH COUNT \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 DRIVING MOTOR VEHICLE IN CONTRAVENTION OF THE THIRD PARTY POLICY RISKS}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 : Contrary to Section 4(1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1798457\charrsid4929646 ) (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 2) of the Motor Vehicle Third Party Policy Insurance Act 177. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Particulars of Offence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid4391751 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 SEREIMA BOKADI, on the 13th day of April 20 02 at Navua in the Central Division, drove a motor vehicle on Queens Road when there was not in force in relation to the use of the said motor vehicle by the said SEREIMA BOKADI, a Policy of Insurance in respect of Third Party Policy Risks as complies und er the provisions of this Act. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par After her pleas of guilty were entered, the prosecution outlined the facts.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 They were that on 13th April 2002 at 7am, one Eiliki Losione drove the Appellant and another friend to Pacific Harbour in his car.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 At Pacific Harbour, whilst they were drinking, Mr Losione went for a swim.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The Appellant, without his permission, took the car keys and drove away in the vehicle with her friend.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 She was driving at high speed, could not control the vehicle and caused it to tumble over.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Her friend received injuries as a result of the accident.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The Appellant did not possess a driving licence.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 She agreed with these facts and was convicted on all counts. \par \par In mitigation, the Appellant expressed remorse and said that she worked at Mandola & Associates and earned $100 per week.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 She said she looked after her family.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The learned Magistrate sentenced her as follows: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Count 1:\tab $200 fine in default 40 days imprisonment;}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid746977 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid746977\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Count 2:\tab $250 fine in default 50 days imprisonment;}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid746977 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid746977\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Count 3:\tab $100 fine in default 20 days imprisonment;}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid746977 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid746977\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Count 4:\tab $55 fine in default 11 days imprisonment. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par She was disqualified from driving for 12 months. \par \par The Appellant appeals against these sentences.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 She quite candidly said that she had not paid the fines within the 28 days given to her because she had no means to pay them.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 She asked that the fines be reduced, and that she be given a year to pay them. \par \par In answer to my questions, she said that she has worked on a temporary basis for Majolo & Associates in Walu Bay where she earns $100 per week when she is working.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 She said that she supports her mother and a son who is at school.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 She said that his school fees are paid for by her brothers.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 She said that she has no skills other than for household work but could pay her fines if she was given enough time to do so. \par \par State counsel agreed that she should be given more time to pay her fines, but strongly objected to the reduction of the fines, saying that it was a serious case of its kind and that the fines were not excessively heavy. \par \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid746977 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The Principles Applicable to Fines}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par Fines may be imposed for most offences in addition to or instead of, any other sentence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 On imposing such a fine, the court may order that a term of imprisonment be served in default of payment, under section 35(1}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1798457\charrsid4929646 ) (}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 d) of the Penal Code.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Section 28(4) of the Penal Code provides that a sentence of imprisonment in default of payment of a fine shall be served consecutively with a former sentence. \par \par Fines are generally imposed when the facts of a case suggest that the sentencer should pass a sentence at the lower end of the tariff, and where a deterrent sentence is considered necessary but the offence is not so grave that a custodial sentence is required.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 In principle, a fine must only be imposed when the facts of the case do not call for a custodial sentence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 As D.A. Thomas says in his \'93Principles of Sentencing\'94 (2nd Ed. p.318): \'93 It is wrong in principle to impose a heavy fine on a wealthy man in a case where a person of less substantial means would normally be sentenced to imprisonment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The Court has indicated in earlier decisions that the power to impose fines should not be used to \lquote give persons of means an opportunity of buying themselves out of being sent to prison \rquote (}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Markwick}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 (1953) 37 Cr. App. R. 125.)\'94 \par \par After deciding that the case does not warrant a custodial sentence, the sentencer must then decide on the appropriate level of fine.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 In traffic cases, there is usually a tariff of fines for particular offences.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The Land Transport Act provides a schedule of ranges of fines.} {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Tariffs of fines in non-traffic cases may be more difficult to ascertain.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 In deciding on the appropriate fine, the court is entitled to take into account any profit the offender made from the offending, and his or her means to pay. \par \par The only reference to a means inquiry in the Penal }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1798457\charrsid4929646 Code}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 is in section 37, which provides for a means inquiry before a committal warrant is issued under section 37(1) for non-payment of fine.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 However, the common law requires some inquiry into means }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 before the fine is imposed}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 .}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 As D.A. Thomas (supra) states at p.320: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \'93.... a fine should not normally be imposed without an investigation of the offender\rquote s means, and the amount appropriate to the offence considered in the abstract should be reduced, where necessary, to an amount which the offender can realistically be expected to pay.\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Haroon Khan -v- The State}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 40 FLR 182, Pathik J, after referring to }{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 R -v- King}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 (1970) 2 ALL ER 249 and }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 R -v- Lewis}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 (1965) Crim. L.R. 121, said that where a Magistrate failed to inquire into means before imposing a fine, the sentence was wrong in principle and would be quashed.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Earle Underwood -v- Reg}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Crim. App. No. 69 of 1983, Kermode J said: \par }{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11041035 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \'93Where a Magistrate proposes to impose what he considers might be a large fine for the person he has convicted, a lot of time, trouble and expense would be saved if he made inquiry of that person\rquote s means before imposing the fine.\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 In assessi ng means, the sentencing court should consider regularity of employment, expected and current wages, financial burdens on the offender, and other sources of income.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Fines should not be ordered to be paid over excessive periods of time, and it is wrong in principle to order payment of fines expecting another person to pay it (other than the offender).}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The exception is the payment of a juvenile\rquote s fines by his parent or guardian.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Lastly, in assessing the offender\rquote s means, a court is entitled to rely upon information given to it by the offender and is under no duty to conduct an independent means of inquiry.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Wright -v- R}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 (1977) Crim. L.R., the court said: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \'93 Although it is ... a fundamental principle of sentencing that financial obligations must be matched to the ability to pay, that does not mean that the Court has to set out on an inquisitorial function and dig out all the information that exists about the appellant\rquote s means.}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The appellant knows what his means are and he is perfectly capable of putting them before the court.\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Where an offender does not pay his/her fine, the court must make an inquiry as to means in the presence of the offender before issuing a warrant of commitment to prison.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Section 23(2) of the Constitution provides that a person may not be deprived of personal liberty by court order on the ground of failure to pay a fine unless the court considers \'93 that the person has wilfully refused to pay despite having the means to do so.\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The effect of this section of the Constitution on section 37(4) of the Penal Code was fully discussed by Scott J in }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 In the Matter of Eroni Delai}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Misc. 15/2000.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 For the purpose of this judgment, it is enough to say that where a means inquiry has been conducted when the fine was imposed, then unless there has been a sign ificant change of means between imposition of sentence and the default period, a further inquiry before the committal warrant is issued will not normally be necessary.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Where the offence was \'93Formally proved\'94 and the accused was not present at the hearing, then, unless the court had proceeded on the basis of an \'93NAC\'94 which warned the accused that he might be fined in his absence and would be given 8 days to pay (which period could be extended by application), fines imposed are liable to be quashed and commit tal orders similarly quashed for lack of compliance with section 23(2) of the Constitution.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 This is because an offender cannot be assumed to have wilfully refused to pay his/her fine, when he/she did not know that a fine had been imposed. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11041035 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 This Appeal}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The court record shows that there was some inquiry as to means before the fines were imposed.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 However it does not appear that the learned Magistrate knew that the Appellant\rquote s employment was spasmodic. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par In the circumstances I consider the period given for payment of fines unrealistic in relation to the Appellant\rquote s means.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Further, although the offence of taking a motor vehicle without the owner\rquote s consent is a serious and prevalent offence, in this case the Appellant went on a \'93joy-ride\'94 in a friend\rquote s car.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 This was not a case of dishonesty, rather one of irresponsibility probably }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1798457\charrsid4929646 fuelled}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 by alcohol.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 In the circumstances I consider the fine of $250 excessive on Count 1, and I reduce it to $100.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 I decline to reduce any of the other fines on the ground of gravity.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The total fine to be paid is therefore $505.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 I order that the fines be paid within 12 months from today in instalments of $42 per month.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid4929646 } {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The in default periods of imprisonment on each count remain; as does the period of disqualification. \par \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 The sentences are therefore as follows: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Count 1:\tab $100 in default 40 days imprisonment;}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid746977 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid746977\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Count 2:\tab $250 fine in default 50 days imprisonment;}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid746977 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid746977\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Count 3:\tab $100 fine in default 20 days imprisonment;}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid746977 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid746977\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 Count 4:\tab $55 fine in default 11 days imprisonment. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par This appeal succeeds to this extent.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid10364593\charrsid4929646 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid10364593 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid10364593 Nazhat Shameem \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid10364593 JUDGE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid10364593 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid4929646 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid8731759\charrsid4929646 \par At Suva \par 29th October 2002 \par }}