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\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Mr Waqavonovono
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\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 18/10/2010, 29/11/2010.
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\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
This is an appeal by the Director of Public Prosecutions against an order discharging the Responde\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 nt without conviction by the Magistrates Court Suva, for 5 counts of Larceny by servant.
\par 
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The Respondent pleaded not guilty to charges on 4/6/2007.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
After 18 adjournments on 12\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 th\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  November 2009, on a hearing date Respondent pleaded guilty to all 5 count\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
s and the learned Magistrate absolutely discharged the Respondent pursuant Section 44 of the Penal Code Cap 17.
\par 
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State appealed on the said discharge on the ground that;
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The learned Magistrate erred in Law and in fact when she imposed an absolute disc\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 harge sentence on the Respondent.
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\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [4]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
I considered the submissions made by Counsel for both parties at the appeal hearing.
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\par 
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\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Absolute and conditional discharge
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\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Where a court by or before which a person is
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  found guilty of an offence, not being an \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 offence\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
 for which a fixed sentence is prescribed by law, is of opinion, having regard to the circumstances including the nature of the offence and the character of the offender, that it is inexpedient to inflict pu\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
nishment and that a probation order under the Probation of Offenders Act is not appropriate, the court may, with or without proceeding to conviction, make an order discharging him absolutely, or, if the court thinks fit, discharging him subject to the con
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 d\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
ition that he commits no offence during such period, not exceeding twelve months from the date of the order, and subject to such other conditions, if any, including the payment of costs or compensation, or the restitution of goods or the payment of money 
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 i\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 n lieu of goods, as may be specified in such order.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [6]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
It is submitted on behalf of the Appellant that the nature of the offending warrants a custodial sentence or a suspended sentence in this case.
\par 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [7]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
The contention of the Respondent is that as the Re\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 spondent pleaded guilty to the offence and as restitution has been made absolute discharge was the appropriate order that should have been made by the learned Magistrate.
\par 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [8]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 In the case of }{
\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Kumar\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 v\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 State
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [2005]\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 FJHC69;\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 HAM 004J.2005S}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  Justice Shameem said;
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 "}{
\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Issue is whether the circumstances in this case justify the setting aside of the conviction, and imposing instead an }{
\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 absolute discharge.}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{
\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Absolute discharges are reserved for the most exceptional of cases, where the appellant was guilty of only a techni\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
cal breach of the law, or where his conduct was not morally culpable.}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 One example might be where the offender having taken legal advice, was erroneously told that he could sell goods, or build a garage without a licence or planning\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  permission.}{
\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 In fact, m\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
ost cases of offenders acting for instance, under an honest mistake of law, would not be prosecuted at all.}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{
\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Thus the }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 absolute discharge}{
\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  is an exceptional sentence, reserved for those who deserve no punishment at all, for breaking the law}{
\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 "}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 .}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [9]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 In case of
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  Land Transport Authority v Neneboto (2002) FJHC 184 HAA 0087J.2002S (22 November 2002) the court said;
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 "}{
\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 The absolute discharges are appropriate only in a limited number of circumstances, such as where no moral blame attaches (}{
\i\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 R v O}{\i\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 '}{
\i\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Toole}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  (1971) 55 Cr.App
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 .R.206)\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  or where a mere technical breach of the law has occurred, perhaps by imprudence without dishonesty\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{
\i\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 (R vKavanagh}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
(unreported) May 16\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 th\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  1972CA)}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 "}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 .
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [10]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 I bear in mind that the Responden
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 t had made the restitution in fu\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ll and that he pleaded guilty.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 H\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 owever,\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
 this case cannot be considered as one of the most exceptional cases, where the Respondent was guilty \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 of \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 only a technical breach of the Law.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 This is a calculated offence where the Respondent has stolen the money when he was working as an employee o
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 f the com\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 plainant\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  company.
\par 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [11]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
Therefore the learned Magistrate has erred in Law and in principle in absolutely discharging the Respondent.
\par 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [12]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
The offence of Larceny by Servant carries a maximum sentence of 14 years imprisonment.
\par 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [13]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 On breach of tr
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ust cases\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ,\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  in John Barrick (1985) 81 Cr App. R.78 the court said that it was dangerous to \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 generalis\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
e where the circumstances of the offender and the offence may vary so widely from case to case.}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 The court further said;
\par 
\par }\pard \ql \li720\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin720\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 "}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 In general a term of immediate \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 imprisonment is inevitable, sa\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 v
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 \hich\f0 e in very exceptional circumstances or where the amount of money obtained is small\'85\loch\f0 ..}{\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 "}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [1\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 4\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 In }{\b\i\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 State v Prasad \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 (\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 2003\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 )
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  FJHC 320; HAC 0009T.2002S (30 October 2003)}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  where the accused pleaded guilty and paid the stolen money back
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  to the employer\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ,\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  Justice Gates \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 (\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 as he was then\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ),}{
\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 sentenced the accused to 2 years imprisonment suspended for 3 years.

\par 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [1\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 5\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 In case of State v Raymond Roberts (2004) FJHC 51; HAA 0053J.2003S where the accused pleaded guilty to four counts of larceny by s\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ervant and repaid the money\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ,
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  was sentenced to 18 months imprisonment suspended for 3 years.
\par 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [1\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 6\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Bearing in mind the sentences passed in similar cases and considering that\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  the accused pleaded guilty, \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 made restitution in full\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 ,
\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 and that he is a 1\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 st\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  offender\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 
I proceed to convict the accused and sentence him to 18 months imprisonment suspended for 3 years.
\par 
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 [17]}{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Hence appeal is allowed.
\par 
\par }\pard \qc \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 Priyantha Fernando
\par }{\b\f0\fs24\ul\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 JUDGE
\par }\pard \ql \li0\ri0\nowidctlpar\aspalpha\aspnum\faauto\adjustright\rin0\lin0\itap0\pararsid6580708 {\b\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 
\par }{\f0\fs24\lang2057\langfe1033\langnp2057\insrsid6580708\charrsid6580708 \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 At Suva
\par \hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 2\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 nd\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0  December, 2010\hich\af0\dbch\af36\loch\f0 .
\par }}