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.}}{\*\pnseclvl3\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl4\pnlcltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta )}} {\*\pnseclvl5\pndec\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxtb (}{\pntxta )}}{\*\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\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 \fs24\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par AT SUVA \par APPELLATE JURISDICTION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO: HAA 87 OF 2002 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Between:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 LAND TRANSPORT AUTHORITY \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Appellant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 And:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 ISIMELI NENEBOTO \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Respondent \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par Hearing:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609\charrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 15th November 2002 \par Judgment:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609\charrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 22nd November 2002 \par \par Counsel:}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609\charrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Ms A. Neelta for Land Transport Authority \par Mr E. Veretawatini for Respondent \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609\charrsid3618609 JUDGMENT}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par The Appellant, the Land Transport Authority, appeals against an absolute discharge ordered by the Nausori Magistrate\rquote s Court on 15th August 2002 in respect of the following offence: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 FAILURE TO WEAR SEAT BELT}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 : Contrary to Regulations 27(1) and 87 of Land Transport (Traffic) Regulations 2000. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Particulars of Offence}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 ISIMELI NENEBOTO on 8th day of May, 2002 at Nausori in the Central Division drove a Goods Vehicle Registration No. DR001 on Kings Road, Davuilevu, and failed to wear the seat belt provided in the vehicle. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The grounds of appeal are: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 a)\tab}}\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx630\jclisttab\tx1260\wrapdefault\faauto\ls4\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12138753 {\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 That the sentence meted out to the respondent is manifestly wrong in principle; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx630\jclisttab\tx1260\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12138753 {\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 b)\tab}}\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx630\jclisttab\tx1260\wrapdefault\faauto\ls4\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12138753 {\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 That the learned magistrate erred in law by not following the sentence guideline stipulated in the Land Transport (Fees and Penalties) Regulations 2000 in particular to section 3(1) of the prescribed penalties and fixed penalties; \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx630\jclisttab\tx1260\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12138753 {\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 c)\tab}}\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx630\jclisttab\tx1260\wrapdefault\faauto\ls4\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12138753 {\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 That the section 3(1) does not give powers to the magistrate to use their discretion to discharge the respondent after pleading guilty and admitting}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 the facts outlined by the prosecution. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par The Respondent was issued with a Traffic Infringement Notice on the 8th of May 2002.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 He did not plead guilty in writing, and the matter was called in court on 17th July 2002.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 On that day, counsel for th e Respondent said that the Respondent was not guilty.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 On the 15th of August 2002, the Respondent pleaded guilty.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The prosecution said that the facts were as \'93in TIN.\'94}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Counsel said the facts were agreed to.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 There were no previous conviction.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 In mitigation, counsel said that the Respondent was a 49 year old lecturer at Nadave and on the day of the offence, had been suffering from a running stomach.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 He asked for an absolute discharge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The prosecution obviously disputed this, saying that the Respondent, when stopped by the Land Transport Officers, did not explain his problem to them.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The Respondent said that he did, but that the officers ignored him.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The Magistrate then gave the Respondent an absolute discharge. \par \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12138753 {\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The grounds of appeal}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par The first ground of appeal is that the sentence was manifestly wrong in principle.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Section 44(1) of the Penal Code provides as follows: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \'93 (1) Where a court by or before which a person is found guilty of an offence, not being an offence for which a fixed se ntence is prescribed 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 punishment and that a probation order under the Probation of Offenders A ct is not appropriate, the court may, with or without proceeding 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 tw elve 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 lieu of goods, as may be specified in such order.\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par Regulation 27(1) of the Land Transport (Traffic) Regulations 2000 provides as follows: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 (1) A person who is 8 years or over seated in a motor vehicle that is in motion must - \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 a)\tab}}\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\faauto\ls5\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 wear the seat belt provided; and \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\insrsid3618609\charrsid3618609 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 b)\tab}}\pard \ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\jclisttab\tx990\wrapdefault\faauto\ls5\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 the seat belt must be properly adjusted and securely fastened.\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par Regulation 27(3) provides for exemptions from the duty to wear seat belts on the ground of unfitness or disability, but only when the Authority has issued a certificate certifying that Regulation 27(1}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609\charrsid3618609 ) (}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 a) and (b) do not apply to a person. \par \par Regulation 87 of the Regulations provides that: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \'93 A person who commits an offence under these Regulations is liable on conviction to the penalties prescribed for that offence in Schedule 2 to the Land Transport (Fee and Penalties) Regulations 2000.\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par Regulation 3 of the Regulations reads: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \'93 (1) A penalty prescribed in column 4 and column 5 of schedule 2 is the fixed penalty payable on the issue of a Traffic Infringement Notice in respect of an offence against the section of the Act or Regulations respectively pre scribed in column 3 of schedule 2. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 (2) The penalty prescribed in columns 6 and 7 of schedule 2 is the maximum penalty for an offence against the Regulation respectively prescribed in column 3. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 (3) Where the prescribed penalty is shown $........./......... months or similar in column 7 of schedule 2, the court }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 may}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 impose a fine up to the maximum period shown or both such fine and such imprisonment.\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par In respect of Regulation 27(1), the fixed penalty is $80 with 2 demerit points, and the maximum penalty is $500 fine and/or 3 months imprisonment and a demerit point of 3. \par \par Counsel for the Authority concedes that the court has a discretion, but submitted that this discretion ranged from the fixed penalty of $80.00, to the maximum penalty of $500.00.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 She argued that the sentence was one \'93fixed by law\'94 and that therefore the Magistrate had no discretion to order an absolute discharge. \par \par Counsel for the Respondent submitted that the Respondent should never have been charged at all under Regulation 27(1) because the Regulation relevant to drivers, is Regulation 27(5).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 If this latter submission is correct, one wonders why the Respondent pleaded guilty in the Magistrate\rquote s Court.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 However, while Regulation 27(5) does deal with the duty of drivers to ensure that all persons in his/her vehicle are wearing seatbelts, Regulation 27(1) deals with all persons seated in a motor vehicle in motion, including the driver.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Regulation 27(5) refers to the special duty of the driver to ensure that all passengers are wearing seat belts.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The charge under Regulation 27(1) was therefore quite proper. \par \par I turn to sentence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 LTA -v- Eroni Volavola}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Crim. App. HAA066 of 2002S, I made an obiter remark that a penalty under Regulation 51 of the Land Transport (Traffic) Regulations was one fixed by law.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 However, that remark was obiter and the point was not fully argued in that case. \par \par The reference to fixed penalty in Regulation 3 of the Land Transport (Fees and Penalties) Regulations 2000, is not a reference to a judicial penalty.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 It is a penalty payable on the issue of the Traffic Infringement Notice by Land Transport Officers, at the scene of the alleged offence.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 State -v- Usman Ali}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Criminal Appeal No. 12 of 2001, Fatiaki J said in an appeal on the question of whether Traffic Infringement Notices could be used for offences for which there was no fixed penalty: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \'93Returning then to the difference between a \'93fixed penalty\'94 and a \'93prescribed penalty\'94 the expression used in the enumerated offence sections under the LTA Act is \lquote .......... liable on conviction to the prescribed penalty\rquote which is the maximum penalty for the offence within which the trial court retains a sentencing discretion quite unlike a \lquote fixed penalty\rquote which upon payment is \lquote deemed a conviction\rquote unless the offence for which it was issued does not attract any demerit points in which latter case it is \lquote deemed not a conviction\rquote .\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par Fatiaki J was clearly of the view that the court retained a sentencing discretion for prescribed penalty offences.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 In }{ \b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Fisheries Inspector -v- Turner}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 (1978) 2 NZLR, the New Zealand Court of Appeal considered whether a statutory provision for forfeiture of a fishing vessel on conviction under the }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Fisheries (Geneva) Regulations 1950}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 , prevented the Magistrate from ordering an absolute discharge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Section 42(1) of the Criminal Justice Act is comparable to section 44 of the Fiji Penal Code, except that the New Zealand statute uses the words \'93unless by any enactment applicable to the offence a minimum penalty is expressly provided for.\'94}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 It was held that the forfeiture provisions under the Fisheries Act 1908, did not create a minimum penalty because the provisions operated independently of the conviction and of the court, and because the provisions related to the pr operty and not to the offender.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 It was held that the Magistrate did have the power to discharge absolutely. \par \par In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 State -v- Alifereti Nakautoga}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Crim. App. No. HAA 130 of 1997, Pain J found that a section 44 discharge was not available under the Dangerous Drugs Act because that Act provided for minimum mandatory terms of imprisonment.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 A sentence \'93fixed by law\'94 is therefore synonymous with a sentence of a minimum mandatory term. \par \par In this case the fixed penalty provisions under the Land Transport Act and Regulations, are enforced not by the Magistrate, but by Land Transport Officers, on issuing a Traffic Infringement Notice.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The provisions were evidently intended to provide a quick efficient way of dealing with offenders who admitted guilt and wished to pay an \'93on the spot\'94 fine instead of appearing in court with the attendant expense and publicity.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The fixed penalty is therefore not a minimum sentence.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Those offences which have minimum mandatory sentences, are specified in the Schedule to the Act itself.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 One such example is the offence of \'93Dangerous Driving Occasioning Death\'94 which carries a minimum sentence of $1000 fine and disqualification for 6 months. \par \par For these reasons, I find that it was open in law, for the learned Magistrate to order an absolute discharge for an offence under Regulation 27(1).}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Grounds (b) and (c) are therefore unsuccessful. \par \par The next question is whether on the facts of this case, he erred in so exercising his discretion.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 At the hearing of the appeal I requested assistance from counsel as to the connection between a running stomach, and the failure to wear seat belts.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Neither counsel was able to assist.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 I see no connection.}{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 If the Respondent was suffering from such a chroni c stomach condition that he had to repeatedly, and without warning, stop the car, then he should not have been driving at all.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 It is not surprising that (if the Respondent did inform the LTA Officers of his condition) they ignored him.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 A running stomach is not a mitigating factor in respect of an offence of failing to wear seat belts in a moving car. \par \par The absolute discharge must be sparingly used.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 State -v- Nand Kumar} {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Crim. App. No. HAA014/00L, Gates J said: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \'93Absolute discharges are appropriate only in a limited number of circumstances, such as where no moral blame attaches (}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 R -v- O\rquote Toole}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 (1971) 55 Cr. App. R. 206) or where a mere technical breach of the law has occurred, perhaps by imprudence without dishonesty (}{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 R -v- Kavanagh}{ \b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 (unreported) May 16th 1972CA).\'94 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par In }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Tipple -v- Police}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 (1994) 2 NZLR 362, a licensed arms dealer had been told by the police that they were not concerned with the sales of firearms, as long as they were for export.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The dealer was charged with supplying firearms to Russian seamen.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 It was held that because the dealer committed the crime, believing it to be lawful, it was in the public interest that his company should not be punished for acts specifically approved by the police.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 The court ordered an absolute discharge. \par \par The absolute discharge is therefore for the morally blameless offender, or for the offender who has committed only a technical breach of the law.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Such cases are rare, because in most such cases a decision would have been made not to prosecute.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 It should be rare that, ha ving used court and prosecution resources, in the investigation, prosecution and trial of offences, a Magistrate would consider it just to order an absolute discharge. \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 This is not one of those rare cases.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Further, in deciding on an appropriate case, the fixed penalty under the Regulation should be considered.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 An offender who has decided to use the court resources to plead guilty, instead of the fixed penalty procedure, would normally expect at the least, a fine above the fixed penalty amount. \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 In this case the learned Magistrate erred in ordering an absolute discharge.}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 }{ \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 It is quashed and substituted with a conviction. \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid3618609 \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 I refer the matter back to the learned Magistrate for examination of means and sentence. \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 Nazhat Shameem \par }{\b\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 JUDGE}{\b\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\wrapdefault\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid3618609 {\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6888725\charrsid3618609 \par At Suva \par 22nd November 2002 \par }}