Malili Siafolau was sentenced last week to four years in jail after he was found guilty of unlawful sexual connection, common assault and being armed with a dangerous weapon, namely a rock, following a bench trial.
The 42-year-old male of Faleatiu was charged last year in July after a 25-year-old woman filed a complaint that he sexually assaulted her inside her home when her husband was away. In the course of the incident, it’s alleged Malili strangled her.
Justice Fepulea’i Ameperosa Roma handed down sentencing in this matter.
According to the woman’s testimony, the defendant was intoxicated and forced himself on her.
The defendant also testified, and the Judge rejected his claims the sexual acts were consensual. Furthermore, the Judge said there is no sense in the defence’s suggestion that the victim reported the incident the same evening because the accused had not given her the fine mat.
The victim’s undisputed evidence is that not long after the accused left and feared for their safety, she gathered her young son, left their house, walked quite a distance close to midnight, and sought help from the first house they came across with lights on. The matter was reported to the Police.
On the charge of unlawful sexual connection, Justice Roma sentenced Siafolau to four years imprisonment. On the charge of common assault, six months imprisonment. On account of being armed with a dangerous weapon, he was convicted and discharged. The custodial sentences for unlawful sexual connection and common assault are to be served concurrently, and he is to be credited for time served.