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{\vern24689}}\margl1440\margr1440 \widowctrl\ftnbj\aenddoc\noxlattoyen\expshrtn\noultrlspc\dntblnsbdb\nospaceforul\hyphcaps0\formshade\horzdoc\dgmargin\dghspace180\dgvspace180\dghorigin1440\dgvorigin1440\dghshow1\dgvshow1 \jexpand\viewkind4\viewscale100\pgbrdrhead\pgbrdrfoot\splytwnine\ftnlytwnine\htmautsp\nolnhtadjtbl\useltbaln\alntblind\lytcalctblwd\lyttblrtgr\lnbrkrule\nobrkwrptbl\snaptogridincell\allowfieldendsel\wrppunct \asianbrkrule\rsidroot11929440\newtblstyruls\nogrowautofit \fet0{\*\ftnsep \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\sa200\sl276\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f36\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 { \insrsid12583751 \chftnsep \par }}{\*\ftnsepc \pard\plain \ql \li0\ri0\sa200\sl276\slmult1\widctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0 \f36\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\insrsid12583751 \chftnsepc \par }}{\*\aftnsep \pard\plain \ql 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}}{\*\pnseclvl1\pnucrm\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\pnseclvl2\pnucltr\pnstart1\pnindent720\pnhang {\pntxta .}}{\*\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 \s15\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 \f36\fs22\lang1033\langfe1033\cgrid\langnp1033\langfenp1033 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 IN THE HIGH COURT OF FIJI \par AT LABASA \par MISCELLANEOUS JURISDICTION \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Crim. Misc. Case No: HAM 17 of 2009 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\caps\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Between: \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 REENA DEVI \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Applicant \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\caps\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 And: \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 THE STATE \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Respondent \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par Hearing:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 22nd February 2010 \par Judgment:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 16th April 2010 \par \par Counsel:}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Mr. T. Lee for Accused \par Mr. S. Qica for State \par \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 JUDGMENT \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 \par [1] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The applicant is charged with murder of her newly born baby.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The offence was alleged to have occurred on 10 April 2003.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The applicant was charged on 9 July 2009, that is, after 6 years and 3 months from the date of the alleged offence. \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 [2]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 This is an application by the defence to stay the case permanently on the ground that there has been an unreasonable delay in bringing the charge before the court that it violates the applicant\rquote s rights under the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights and amounts to an abuse of process. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [3] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The evidence shows that the applicant was interviewed by the police on 23 June 2003.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Statements of material witnesses were obtained before the applicant\rquote s interview.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 These witnesses were the relatives of the applicant who lived with her at the time of the alleged offence.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The post mortem report of the deceased infant and the doctor\rquote s statement were made available to the police before the caution interview of the applicant. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [4] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 After the caution interview, the applicant heard nothing about the case until 9 July 2009 when she was charged with murder. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [5] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The State has filed an affidavit of Josefa Tosokiwai, Clerical Officer, Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions, to explain the delay in charging the applicant.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Mr. Tosokiwai states in his affidavit: \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 That on 11th November 2003 police forwarded relevant docket to our office which we received on 13th November 2003. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 That on 26th July 2004, relevant docket was sent back to police with instructions for further investigations. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 That in September 2004, relevant docket was sent back to our office. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Tha t after receiving docket, nothing was done on file until June 2009 where State Counsel Mr. Korovou rendered an opinion on 12th June 2009. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 That on 18th June 2009, the then Acting DPP [Mr Rabuku] then considered the opinion and on 25th June 2009 police were advised to charge the applicant. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 That the applicant was formally charged on 9th July 2009 at Labasa Magistrate Court and matter was transferred thereafter to the High Court.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [6] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The State accepts that the delay is unreasonable and that it is attributed to them, but submits the offence is serious and it is in the public interest to try the applicant. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [7] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 It is clear from the evidence that the police had encountered no difficulty in the investigation of this offence.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The evidence shows that after the police docket was received by the Office of Director of Public Prosecutions in September 2004, nothing was done to charge the applicant. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [8] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Mr. Lee for the applicant submits that the issue is covered by Article 14 of the International Convention on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) in the absence of constitutional protections for an accused in a criminal proceeding.}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Counsel relies on Article 14 (3): \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 3. In the determination of any criminal charge against him, everyone shall be entitled to the following minimum guarantees, in full equality: \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 (a) }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 To be informed promptly and in detail in a language which he understands of the nature and cause of the charge against him; \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 (b) }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 To have adequate time and facilities for the preparation of his defence and to communicate with counsel of his own choosing; \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li1440\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin1440\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 (c) }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 To be tried without}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 undue delay;}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 \par [9] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The applicant in particular relies on Article 14 (3) (c) \endash the right to be tried withou t undue delay. The hurdle in placing a reliance on the ICCPR is that Fiji has not ratified it.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 By not ratifying the ICCPR, Fiji as a State is not bound by its terms.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 However, the matter does not rest there. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [10] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 This application can be fairly dealt under common law.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The right to a fair trial is protected by common law. This right operates to safeguard against any conduct of the prosecution that amounts to an abuse of process.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 If the court finds an abuse of process on behalf of the prosecution then the proceeding can be permanently stayed. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [11] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The power to stay a prosecution arises from the inherent jurisdiction of a court to prevent an abuse of process }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 (}{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Connelly v. DPP}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 (1964) A.C. 1254)}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 . \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [12] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Brennan J in } {\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Jago v District Court of NSW}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 [1989] 168 CLR 23}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 said: \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 No abuse of process appears merely from delay on the prosecution, either by inadvertence or by negligence, in presenting an indictment. It may be different if the prosecution was to delay deliberately in presenting an indictment in order to prevent a n accused from making an effective defence but, even in such a case, the remedy may lie not in permanently staying the proceedings but in bringing them to a conclusion with a direction which nullifies the affect of the tactic.}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 \par [13] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 In }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 R v. Derby Crown Court, ex p Brooks}{ \i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 [1984] 80 Cr. App. R. 164}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 , Sir Roger Omrod said: \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The power to stop a prosecution arises only when it is an abuse of the process of the court.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 It may be an abuse of processes if either (a) the prosecution have manipulated or misused the process of the court so as to deprive the defendant of a protection provided by law or to take unfair advantage of a technicality, or (b) on the balance of probability the defendant has been, or w i ll be prejudiced in the prosecution of or conduct of his defence by delay on the part of the prosecution which is unjustifiable: for example, not due to the complexity of the inquiry and preparation of the prosecution case, or to the action of the defenda nt or his co-accused or to genuine difficulty in effecting service.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [14] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Earlier in the judgment Sir Omrod pointed out that: \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The question \'85is whether the defendant has been so prejudiced by this delay that justice cannot now be done.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 "}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [15] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 In }{ \b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 R v Oxford City JJ, ex p Smith}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 [1982] 75 Cr App R 200}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 , Lord Lane described such abuse of process arising where the delay by its nature and its length must inevitably lead to prejudice, unfairness and injustice to an accused. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [16] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 It was held in }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Barton v The Queen}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 [1980] 147 CLR 75}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 that a stay is justified if the defect is so fundamental to the trial process that nothing the trial court can do in the conduct of the trial can relieve against its unfair consequences. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [17] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The applicant no doubt is charged with a se rious offence of murder. Like in any murder case, the court will have to determine the state of mind of the applicant at the time she allegedly killed her baby. Immediately after the alleged incident, the applicant was medically examined by a general prac t itioner at Labasa Hospital. According to the history related to the doctor by the applicant, she did not know anything about the baby. She told the doctor that she went to the toilet and passed blood clots only. The doctor in his report wrote that the app licant was confused, uncooperative and reluctant to answer questions.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 This finding of the doctor although is not conclusive but gives an insight of the applicant\rquote s state of mind at the time of the alleged offence. In her caution interview, the applicant sai d when the baby was born she did not know what had happened to her brain. \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 [18]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 In a case where the accused is charged with murder of a newly born baby, there always exist a possibility that the accused is not guilty of murder but guilty of infanticide con trary to section 205 of the Penal Code. In other words, infanticide is an alternative to murder but the offence is generally punishable by a non custodial sentence, unlike murder which carries a mandatory life imprisonment.}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 However, an accused can only rel y on infanticide if there is some evidence to show that the balance of her mind was disturbed by reason of not having fully recovered from the effect of child birth. \par }\pard \s15\ql \fi-720\li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [19] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The applicant is an indigent person.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 She was married at a young age in 1998.}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Her fi rst child was prematurely born in 1999. The child died after birth. In April 2000 she gave birth to another child. The second child survived.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Within two years she was pregnant and in April 2003 the incident subject of the charge occurred.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Despite these social factors that could have caused the balance of the applicant\rquote s mind to be disturbed when she delivered her baby in April 2003, the law at the time did not recognize social circumstances of women to be relevant to the offence of infanticide. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [20] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 I acce pt that there is some evidence upon which the court could make a determination of infanticide but I am satisfied that the effect of the delay is such that the applicant would not be able effectively to make a case for infanticide. If the prosecution would have charged the applicant immediately after the alleged incident, the court could have ordered for a psychiatric report on the applicant\rquote s state of mind and she would have had the benefit of expert evidence to raise infanticide as an alternative to murder . The delay caused by the prosecution has deprived the applicant from obtaining crucial evidence and the applicant is now seriously handicapped to raise infanticide as an alternative to murder. In this regard, I note that the prosecution has maintained th e murder charge and has not indicated any intention to reduce the charge to infanticide. This may be due to the fact that the there is no medical evidence to show that the applicant\rquote s balance of mind was affected by child birth.}{ \f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 I am satisfied that no other order of the court can remedy the situation. To allow the prosecution to continue in these circumstances would lead to unfairness and distinct possibility of injustice and would lead to an abuse of process. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid12583751 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 [21] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 I bear in mind that murder is a serious of fence and it is in the public interest that those charged with serious offences should be prosecuted. However, the delay of more than six years taken to charge the applicant lay in the hands of the prosecution, not the applicant. If there is a significant risk of injustice, it will apply both to the prosecution and the defence but it is the applicant who is in peril and whose liberty is at stake. To pursue a trial where the ability of the applicant to put a case of infanticide as an alternative to murder i s effectively impaired as a result solely of the failure of the prosecution to timely charge her would be a clear case of abuse of process. I arrive at this conclusion on the special circumstances of the case. \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 \par [22] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 I order that the prosecution be permanently stayed. \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid12583751 \par [23] }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 The application is allowed. \par \par }\pard \s15\qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Daniel Goundar \par JUDGE \par }\pard \s15\ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid11929440 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par At Labasa \par 16th April 2010 \par \par }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Solicitors:}{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440 \par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 \par Office of the Legal Aid Commission for Accused \par }{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid11929440\charrsid11929440 Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions for State}{\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid1972231\charrsid11929440 \par }}