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{\revtim\yr2004\mo10\dy18\hr15\min48}{\printim\yr2004\mo9\dy14\hr8\min53}{\version2}{\edmins5}{\nofpages10}{\nofwords3371}{\nofchars19221}{\*\company Fiji Human Rights Commission}{\nofcharsws22547}{\vern16389}}\margl1440\margr1440 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\aftnnar\notabind\wraptrsp\transmf\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\truncatefontheight\subfontbysize\sprsbsp\wpjst\lytprtmet\hyphcaps0\horzdoc\dghspace120\dgvspace120\dghorigin1701\dgvorigin1984\dghshow0 \dgvshow3\jcompress\viewkind4\viewscale100\nolnhtadjtbl\rsidroot15358756 \fet0\sectd \sbknone\linex0\headery1440\footery1440\sectdefaultcl\sftnbj\saftnnar {\header \pard\plain \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\pvpara\posx0\posy0\absw9361\nowrap\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\insrsid16670862 -}{\field{\*\fldinst {\fs24\insrsid16670862 PAGE }}{\fldrslt { \fs24\lang1024\langfe1024\noproof\insrsid15487226 9}}}{\fs24\insrsid16670862 - \par }\pard \ql 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COURT OF FIJI \par AT SUVA \par APPELLATE JURISDICTION \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO: HAA028 OF 2002 \par (Criminal Case No. 164 of 2002) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Between:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 EPELI DUVE; \par MILIO VUETIBAU; and \par MINILOTE VAKAVANUA \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Appellants \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 And:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 THE STATE \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Respondent \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 CRIMINAL APPEAL NO: HAA029 OF 2002 \par (Criminal Case No. 286 of 2002) \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Between:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 PENI NABANIVALU \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Appellant \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 And:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 THE STATE \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Respondent \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par Hearing:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 16}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 May 2002 \par Judgment:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 22}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 nd}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 May 2002 \par \par Counsel:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Mr S. Valenitabua for Appellants \par Mr N. Nand for Respondent \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 JUDGMENT}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par These are two appeals against convictions and sentences in the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Court, in respect of the same alleged offence of Larceny contrary to sections 259 and 262 of the Penal Code.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The Appellants in Appeal No. 28/02 are charged as follows: \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 LARCENY}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 :}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Contrary to sections 259 and 262 of the Penal Code, Act 17.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Particulars of Offence}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 EPELI DUVE, MINILOTE VAKAVANUA, SAKIUSA RAICEBE and MILIO VUETIBAU on the 14}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 day of December, 2001 at Suva in the Central Division, stole $102,000.00 in cash the property of Armourguard Fiji Limited. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par The Appellant in Appeal No. 29/02 is charged as follows: \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Statement of Offence \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 LARCENY}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 : }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Contrary to Sections 259 and 262 of the Penal Code, Act. 17.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Particulars of Offence}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 PENI NABANIVALU, with others on the 14}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 day of December 2001 at Suva in the Central Division, stole $102,000.00 in cash the property of Armourguard Fiji Limited. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par The two cases were dealt with separately in the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Court because the Appellant Peni Nabanivalu was arrested and charg ed later.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 However the facts of the case are the same, and the grounds of appeal are the same.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 As such both appeals have been dealt with together for the purposes of submissions and judgment. \par \par The Appellants were first brought to court, in Appeal No. 28/02, on 21}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 st}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 January 2002.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 In respect of Appeal No. 29/02, the Appellant was brought to court on 1}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 st}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 February 2002.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The Appellants in 28/02 were not told of their Constitutional right to a lawyer.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 In 29/02, the learned Magistrate has recorded }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Accused ad mits it freely, does not need to seek legal advise}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 ; which implies that he was told of his right to a lawyer.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They all pleaded guilty after the charge was read and explained.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They said they understood it.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The facts as outlined by the prosecution are comprehensive.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They are that a van belonging to the Armourguard Fiji Ltd. was transferring cash to the Automatic Teller Machines of the Colonial Bank on 14}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 December 2001.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 While taking a turn from Usher Street into Harris Road, the driver of the van noticed that the back door of the van was open.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 In Lami the Armourguard staff realised that one bag, containing $102,000 was missing.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They reported the matter to the police.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The Appellants live in Ba.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 During the Christmas period, they spent money lavishly.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 In particular the second Appellant and fourth Appellant bought a motor vehicle each, using some of the cash.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They were questioned on 17}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 January 2002, by the police and they each admitted taking the money.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They said that they had hired Peni Nabanivalu}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 s van (the Appellant on Appeal No. 29/02) to sell mangoes in Suva.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 As they were walking along Harris Road on the 14}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 of December 2001, the third Appellant saw the money bag lying on the road.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He picked it up and showed it to the others.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They then shared the mone}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 y and threw the bag and the can}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 isters (in which the money had been found) into the bushes in Lami.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They each spent it on cars, building materials and as gifts to relatives.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The Appellants were then arrested and charged with the offence of Larceny. \par \par The Appellants agreed with these facts.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Three of the Appellants admitted previous convictions, and all Appellants mitigated.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The first Appellant said, inter alia that it }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 didn}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 t occur to us it was illegal.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 " }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The fourth Appellant said}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 :}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 We decided t o share not realising that it was illegal to do what we did.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par The matter was adjourned to 4}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 February 2002 for sentencing.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 On that date, counsel appeared for the Appellants.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The case was then further adjourned to 12}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 February 2002, when counsel asked to further address the court }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 in mitigation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par He then submitted on behalf of all Appellants, that the facts had failed to disclose the offence of Larceny.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He said that the Appellants admitted taking the money but denied having an intention to defraud.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He said (at page 23): \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They believed that no law would cover them and that they would be arrested.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 They are all villagers.}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 No indication of who the money belonged to.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 No indication that the money came from Armourguard.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 After they arrived at Ba none of them heard about the news of missing money.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 By the time Police came to them, they}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 d spent the money.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 At point of time of finding they believed there was no law binding them.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par He then submitted that section 259(4) of the Penal Code provided that the offence was committed where the accused believes at the time of finding that the owner can be discovered by taking reasonable steps.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He said that the Appellants had been mistaken about the facts and that they did not know who the owner was.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He said that th ey did not act fraudulently or dishonestly because they honestly believed that they had the right to keep the money. \par \par He submitted that because no larceny had been disclosed by the facts }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 all five accused should be acquitted of the offence.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par Sentence was delivered on 26}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 th}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 February 2002.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Counsel}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 s submissions were dealt with thus (at page 30): \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 I must state at the outset, that for at least three of the accuseds namely Peni Nabanivalu, Epeli Duve and Sakiusa Raicebe, section 10 of the Penal Code as to mist ake of fact under an honest and reasonable belief that no law would cover them as put forward by Counsel cannot be accepted.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Further Peni Nabanivalu an Assistant Pastor, in mitigation admitted he was using his words }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Broken the law and done wrong against God.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 " }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He was driving the van on their way to Ba and picked up the bag which contained the money that they shared amongst themselves.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He admitted his weakness for giving in to temptation.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 This was similar to what Milio Vuetibau also said in mitigation in person.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par The learned Magistrate then proceeded to sentence the Appellants.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Peni Nabanivalu, Epeli Duve and Sakiusa Raicebe were each sentenced to five years imprisonment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Milio Vuetibau was sentenced to three years imprisonment.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Minilote Vakavanua was sentenced to two and a half years imprisonment. \par \par The grounds of appeal are as follows: \par \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (1)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 That the learned Magistrate was wrong in law in failing to advice the Appellants to obtain the services of a lawyer before allowing the Appellants to take a guilty plea in the court below; \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (2)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 That the learned Magistrate was wrong in fact and in law in failing to address in her judgment the submission in mitigation on matters of law relative to larceny presented by the Appellants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 counsel in the court below; \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (3)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 That the lear ned Magistrate was wrong in fact and in law in sentencing the Appellants as detailed in paragraph 2 above, whether jointly and/or severally, considering the facts of the case as more correctly presented in mitigation by the Appellants}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 counsel; \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (4)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 That the l earned Magistrate was wrong in law and in fact in failing to properly consider the facts of the case as presented by the Appellants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 counsel and the applicable law relative to finders.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862 \par }\pard \s16\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (5)\tab}}\pard \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15487226 { \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 That the learned Magistrate was wrong in law in failing to take into consideration and/or rejecting the Appellants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 submission by their counsel on mistake of fact; \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par {\listtext\pard\plain\s16 \lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \hich\af0\dbch\af0\loch\f0 (6)\tab}}\pard\plain \s16\ql \fi-720\li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\ls1\outlinelevel0\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 That the learned Magistrate was wrong in law in considering the previous convictions Epeli Duve, Milio Vuetibau and Peni Nabanivalu to determine the said Appellants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 sentences. \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par The grounds of appeal can be addressed in three categories: Breach of section 28 of the Constitution, failure to set aside the guilty pleas and to proceed to trial, and appeal against sentence. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Section 28(1)(d) of the Constitution}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par With the exception of the Appellant Peni Nabanivalu, none of the Appellants was told of their right to a lawyer before the charges were read to them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par Section 28(1)(d) of the Constitution provides that: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Every person charged with an offence has the right .... to defend himself or herself in person or to be represented, at his or her own expense, by a legal practitioner of his or her choice or, if the interests of justice so require, to be given the services of a legal practitioner under a scheme for legal aid .}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par As I have said before, on the basis of authorities from jurisdictions which have the same Constitutional or legislative provision, the duty to inform accused persons of this right, rests on the court before which the accused are first brought.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The right must be explained to them before the charges are read to them.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 } {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 A waiver of the right will not be lightly implied, and any specific waiver must be recorded before the court can proceed to take the pleas (}{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 State -v- Surend Singh and Others}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Crim. App. No. HAA079 of 2000.) \par \par When the court proceeds without counsel, a heavy duty rests on it to ensure that the accused are not prejudiced by lack of legal representation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The more serious the charge, and more difficult or complicated the defence, the heavier the duty is upon the court to ensure lack of prejudice. \par \par The State does not dispute that in App. No. 28/02, there was a breach of this right.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The right was not explained to the accused, and there was no competent waiver.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 However the State submits that there was no prejudice because the Appellants agreed with the facts which disclosed the offence. \par \par Counsel for the Appellant however submits that the facts failed to disclose the defences available to the Appellants, and that they were thereby prejudiced. \par \par In }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Michael Iro -v- Reginam}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 12 FLR 104, the Court of Appeal considered a decision of a High Court judge to set aside a plea of guilty to entry and rape, and to substitute it with a not guilty plea on the ground that the plea was ambiguous.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The accused had put forward excuses for his conduct which constituted possible defences.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Holding that the trial judge had acted in the best interests of the accused, the Court said: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 In our view there is a duty cast on the trial judge in cases where the accused person is unr epresented to exercise the greatest vigilance with the object of ensuring that before a plea of guilty is accepted the accused person should fully comprehend exactly what that plea of guilty involves.}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 As was said by Lord Reading CJ in}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Rex -v- Golathan}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 [(1915) 84 LJKB 7578] }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 It is a well-known principle that a man is not to be taken to have admitted that he has committed an offence unless he pleads guilty in plain, unambiguous terms}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 .}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par Of course the question of prejudice as a result of a breach of section 28(1)(d) of the Constitution, is different from the question of ambiguity of the plea.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Nevertheless, a possible ambiguity of the plea, or the failure of the Magistrate to ensure that the accused persons were explained the implications of their pleas, are factors relevant to the question of prejudice. \par \par Turning therefore to the record, I find that the only references made by the accused themselves, to a possible excuse for their conduct, were in relation to a }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 defence}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 of a mistake of law.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 This is not a defence under section 7 of the Penal Code which provides: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Ignorance of the law does not afford any excuse for any act or omission which would otherwise constitute an offence unless knowledge of the law by the offender is expressly declared to be an element of the offence.}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par At the stage of mitigation in person, the learned Magistrate did not have any grounds therefore, to set aside the pleas of guilty and substitute them with pleas of not guilty.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 However their }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 excuses}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 ought to have led to further inquiry as to their state of mind when the offence was committed. \par \par When counsel appeared, he developed the theme further.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He said that the Appellants had not acted fraudulently and had acted in the exercise of an honest claim of right.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He further said that the Appellants believed they could not find the owners with reasonable diligence. \par \par Section 8 of the Penal Code provides: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 A person is not criminally responsible in respect of an offence relating to property, if the act done or omitted to be done by him with respect of the property was done in the exercise of an honest claim of right and without intention to defraud.}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par Section 259 of the Penal Code defines theft as follows: \par \par }\pard \ql \fi-698\li1418\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1418\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "(1)\tab }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 A person steals who, without the consent of the owner, fraudulently and without a claim of right made in good faith, takes and carries away anything capable of being stolen with intent, at the time of such taking, permanently to deprive the owner thereof: \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li1418\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin1418\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Provided that a person may be guilty of stealing any such thing notwithstanding that he has lawful possession thereof, if, being a bailee or part owner thereof, he fraudulently converts the same to his own use or the use of any person other than the owner. \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 (2)\tab }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (a)\tab The expression }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 takes}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 includes obtaining the possession - \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \fi-687\li2814\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin2814\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (}{\field\flddirty{\*\fldinst { \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 SEQ AutoList1_2 \\* roman \\r 1}}{\fldrslt {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15358756\charrsid15487226 i}}}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 )\tab by any trick; \par }\pard \s17\ql \fi-687\li2814\ri0\nowidctlpar\tx-1440\faauto\outlinelevel2\rin0\lin2814\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 (ii)}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \tab by intimidation; \par }\pard \s17\ql \fi-687\li2814\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin2814\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (}{\field\flddirty{\*\fldinst { \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 SEQ AutoList1_2 \\* roman \\n}}{\fldrslt {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15358756\charrsid15487226 ii}}}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 i}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 )\tab under a mistake on the part of the owner with knowledge on the part of the taker that possession has been so obtained; or \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard\plain \s17\ql \li2127\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin2127\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (}{\field\flddirty{\*\fldinst { \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 SEQ AutoList1_2 \\* roman \\n}}{\fldrslt {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15358756\charrsid15487226 iii}}}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 )\tab }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 by finding, where at the time of the finding the finder believes that the owner can be discovered by taking reasonable steps.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 "}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (my emphasis) \par }\pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 \fs20\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par The test for larceny by finding is a subjective test, applied after the court has heard evidence about what the accused himself or herself believed, in relation to the possible identity of the owner.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Similarly, the test for whether an honest claim of right exists, under section 8 of the Penal Code, is a subjective one. \par \par Although the law on theft in England has changed considerably since the passing of the }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Theft Act 1968}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 , the law on the defence of an honest claim of right, and of stealing by finding has not changed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Section 2(1)(a) of the 1968 Act (UK) provides: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 A person}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 s appropriation of property belonging to another is not to be regarded as dishonest - ...... (c) ........... if he appropriates the property in the belief that the person to whom the property belongs cannot be discovered by taking reasonable steps.}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par The question for the trial court is whether the accused believed he had the right to keep the property, and in the case of a defence of an honest claim of right, whether he had the right to deprive the other person of the property (}{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 R -v- Bernhard}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 26 Cr. App. R. 137, }{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Harris -v- Harrison}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (1963) Crim. L.R. 497.)}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 This is so, even if the belief is unreasonable, or is based on a misunderstanding of the law (}{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 R -v- Turner No. 2}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 , 55 Cr. App. R. 336).}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 In }{ \b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Bernhard}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (supra) the following passage in Stephens}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 s }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 History of the Criminal Law of England}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 was cited with approval: \par \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Fraud is inconsistent with a claim of right made in good faith to do the act complained of.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 A man who takes possession of property which he really believes to be his own does not take it fraudulently, however unfounded his claim may be.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 This, if not the only, is nearly the only case in which ignorance of the law affects the legal character of acts done under its influence.}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (See also Archbold 2002 21.28). \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par In }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Reg -v- William Thurbon}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 1 Den 387, the defendant found a bank note on the highway.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He kept it for his own use, even after he found out who the owner was.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He was convicted.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 On appeal it was held that if he did not have a dishonest intention at the time of appropriation, and believed he could not find the owner at that time, he coul}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 d not be convicted of larceny.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par Counsel therefore raised two legitimate defence}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 s}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 , neither of which were simple or uncomplicated.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 It is safe to assume that lay persons cannot be expected to have a working knowledge of the scope of section 259(2)(a)(iv), o r section 8 of the Penal Code.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The Appellants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 reference to not knowing that their acts were illegal when they mitigated in person, have a different meaning when one reads counsel}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 s submissions when he appeared for the Appellants.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He submits on appeal, that if he had been present when the pleas were first taken, he would have advised his clients to enter pleas of not guilty and to await trial.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Obviously, his request for an acquittal was made in error.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 If the plea is ambiguous or is equivocal, then the magistrate must set it aside and proceed to trial on a not guilty plea.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 An accused person cannot be acquitted after a guilty plea.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The prosecution must be given a chance to lead evidence and the accused must be given a chance to cross-examine.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Whether or not the Appellants}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 defences are accepted, that is whether they honestly believed they could keep the money and that the owners could not be found, will be a matter for the trial court to consider, after hearing all the evidence. \par \par In this case, the learned Magistrate did not consider whether the defence had raised possible defences in law.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 She did not consider whether she should set aside the pleas of guilty and substitute pleas of not guilty.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 She did not consider whether, because the Appellants were unrepresented when their pleas were taken, they were fully aware that they had possible defences but failed to refer to them properly because they were unrepresented. \par \par Because of her failure to exercise her discretion on these matters, I consider that the Appellants were prejudiced by lack of representation, and by the learned Magistrate}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 s failure to explain to them their right to legal representation.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 This ground of appeal succeeds. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Change of Plea}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par There is considerable overlap between this ground and the first ground.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The main thrust of counsel}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 s submissions, is that the pleas of guilty were equivocal and should have been set aside when it became apparent that the Appellants had defences in law. \par \par In }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 S (An Infant) -v- Recorder of Manchester}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (1971) AC 481 a 16 year old defendant pleaded guilty to attempted rape.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 He was unrepresented, but on the next hearing date, appeared with counsel who asked the court to withdraw the guilty plea on the ground of the defendant}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 s mental condition.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The magistrate refused to allow the plea to be changed.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 On appeal, it was held that a court of summary jurisdiction had powers to allow a change of plea at any time before sentence, MacDermott LJ saying at p.493:}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862 \par }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Every experienced judge knows that, even in uncontested matters, the truth has a habit of emerging in bits and pieces, and that the legal ingredients of the offence charged may not be fully understood by the accused.}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Pleas of guilty of stealing where there has been no intention to deprive the owner permanently, or of r eceiving where there has been no guilty knowledge at the time of receipt are but notorious examples of what has happened and can still happen through this sort of ignorance or misunderstanding which, be it noted, may not proclaim itself when the plea is m ade.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The risk of this is certainly not rare enough to be left out of account.}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Legal aid may reduce it, but it would be rash to assume that it will eliminate such mistakes entirely; and it must also be remembered in this connection that quite a number of m odern statutory offences are sufficiently complex in their make-up to confuse both the lay and the learned.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Once made, a mistaken plea may be properly accepted and the mistake may never stand revealed.}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 But if, as can happen, the truth comes to light duri ng the second stage of the proceedings, when the question of what to do with the accused is under consideration, why should it not be acted upon and a changed plea of not guilty allowed where the interests of justice so require?}{ \b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 "}{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par The bases on which the discretion might be exercised are not limited to whether or not the plea was unequivocal, although that is certainly relevant.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 In }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Drew -v- R}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (1985) 81 Cr. App. R. 190 the following principles were approved.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 First, the Court may allow a change of plea at an y time before sentence.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Second, that the discretion exists even where the plea of guilty was unequivocal.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Third, that the discretion must be exercised judicially.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Fourth, that a failure to exercise that discretion amounts to a material irregularity. \par \par In this case, the learned Magistrate failed to exercise her discretion to allow a change of plea.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Although counsel had not specifically asked her to so exercise her discretion, it is apparent from mitigation that the Appellants claimed they had defences on the facts.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Although lack of legal representation at the time the plea is taken, does not inevitably lead to a vacating of the plea when counsel later appears, the question of whether}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 the accused might have benefit}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 ed from legal advice before pleading gui lty to an offence in respect of which he might have a defence is a relevant factor is the exercise of this discretion.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 It was held in }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 R -v- Bournmouth JJ ex p Maguire}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 (1997) COD 21 DC (cited in Archbold 2002 Para 4-187) that an application for change of p lea should be allowed if the court is satisfied that it is arguable that the prosecution case would not be able to establish all the essential ingredients of the offence. \par \par State counsel submitted that the facts disclosed all the ingredients of the offence, and that the Appellants made statements in mitigation from which the Magistrate was entitled to draw inferences of guilty knowledge.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 However, I see from the court record that two of the Appellants said that they did not know that they were doing anything wrong.} {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 These assertions, together with the raising of the defences by counsel about mens rea, clearly raise an arguable issue as to whether the prosecution could establish a fraudulent intent.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 This was a case in which the guilty plea ought to have been set aside and substituted with a not guilty plea. \par \par The learned Magistrate erred in failing to exercise her discretion in this way, or at all.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 For this reason also, this appeal succeeds. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Sentence}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par The appeal against conviction succeeds.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 There is no need to consider appeal against sentence. \par \par }{\b\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Conclusion}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par \par The appeals against convictions by all Appellants succeeds on the grounds that they were prejudiced by absence of counsel and (in respect of App. No. 28/02) by failure to inform them of the right to counsel.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 It succeeds also on the ground that the learned Magistrate failed to exercise her discretion to allow the Appellants to change their pleas.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The pleas of guilty and the convictions are set aside.}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The case is remitted to the Magistrates}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 '}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Court to proceed to trial before another Magistrate on the basis of not guilty pleas.}{ \fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid15487226 }{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 The defences raised by counsel in mitigation may then be raised in the course of a trial. \par \par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 Nazhat Shameem \par }{\b\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 JUDGE}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\faauto\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid15487226 {\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 \par At Suva \par 22}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\super\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 nd}{\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid16670862\charrsid15487226 May 2002 \par }}