High Court Judge Justice Salesi Temo has found 63‑year‑old former manager of the Rural Housing Unit, Jovilisi Dau guilty of one count of abuse of office.
The three assessors in the case have found the man not guilty.
Justice Temo while delivering his judgement today said that in his view, Dau’s job meant that he was responsible for the building materials to be delivered and he was to ensure that the items were of good quality.
Justice Temo rejected Dau’s denial of the offense and said that in his opinion the 63‑year‑old man was very experienced.
It was proven in court that the former manager the Rural Housing Unit, Jovilisi Dau signed a delivery docket to accept materials worth $184,000 from Central City Hardware Limited but the hardware company only supplied $46,081.60 worth of building material.
While presenting the mitigating factors, defense lawyer said that the man is a first offender, he is remorseful and regrets his doings.
Justice Temo added that Dau will be a lesson to all government managers adding that he sees most managers treat state money like its their fathers money.
Prosecution lawyer has submitted that they are seeking for a sentence between 4‑8 years.
The matter has been adjourned to the 10th of August for sentencing.
Dau is on bail and Justice Temo has stated that should the man not make an appearance in court on the 10th of next month, his sentence will be delivered in absentia.
