High Court Judge Justice Daniel Goundar will sentence 30‑year‑old Ratu Semi Kabakaba Degei on the 11th of February next year after he pleaded guilty to the three charges laid against him.
Degei pleaded guilty to a count each of manslaughter, dangerous driving which caused grevious bodily harm and driving a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
The 30‑year‑old has admitted that on the 24th of August this year he drove a motor vehicle in a manner that claimed the life of another 30‑year‑old man in Nakasi.
He admitted that he drove in a dangerous manner which caused grievous bodily harm to a woman in Nakasi on the same day.
He further admitted that on the 24th of August this year, he drove a motor vehicle under the influence of alcohol.
Justice Goundar then questioned him on whether he pleaded guilty to his own free will, to which his response was yes.
Degei revealed in court that during the week of the incident he had been making arrangements for a funeral in the family and he had taken the responsibility to have the function completed in a smooth manner.
He said that after completing the fourth day ritual of the function he had promised his wife who is a registered nurse that he would come home to look after his kids as she had to work that day.
He said before he came, he had a pint of alcohol and had not had enough sleep during the funeral function.
Justice Goundar while speaking to Degei said he can expect the sentence of a jail term, however he will consider that Degei took responsibility of his act and also entered an early guilty plea.
Justice Goundar told Degei that from today until his sentencing date, he is to make arrangements for his family on who will look after the kids as his partner is employed.
Degei’s bail has been extended.
