A STUDENT accused of punching his neighbor and left him with a broken jaw was fined $300 yesterday in the Magistrates Court.
The incident occurred at Independence valley in White River area, West Honiara last year.
Mahlon Kagovai was charged with one count of grevious harm over allegations on August 8, 2009.
He denied the charge on an earlier appearance and the matter was listed for trial yesterday.
Turning up yesterday, the accused changed his plea to ‘guilty’.
Chief Magistrate Leonard Maina gave credit for the accused for being a form six student, there were no use of weapon, there was only one strike of punch, and that a number of attempts were made to reconcile.
His lawyer, Maelyn Bird of Crystal Lawyers firm earlier during the mitigation said number of attempts was made by the accused for reconciliation but the victim was reluctant.
She said only one punch thrown by the accused.
A fine of $300 was imposed in default of 20 days imprisonment, meaning if he fails to pay the fine he will serve 20 days in jail.
Meanwhile outside of court, the police prosecution said they are not happy with the outcome of the case and are going to appeal the sentence.
By ASSUMPTA PIVA.
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