A 31 year-old man who abused his former partner on three separate occasions in September last year has been sentenced to five months in prison.
Eric Foli pleaded guilty to three counts of Domestic Violence – two Psychological Abuses and one Physical Abuse.
Both the prosecution and the defence had asked for a fine to be imposed but Principal Magistrate Elma Veenah Rizzu Hilly imposed a custodial sentence due to the repeated offence and the involvement of a weapon.
Magistrate Hilly initially sentenced Foli to 12 month’s imprisonment, which was reduced to five months after considering the mitigating and aggravating factors.
The accused and the victim used to live together but had then since separated.
The court heard that on 23 September 2024, at around 7pm, the victim walked home from work with a colleague.
At Bulk Shop area in China town, the victim purchased two rolls cigarette and was about to light one when Foli appeared, punched her in the face and head several times, and kicked her in the back with his right leg.
The victim managed to escape.
The next day, between 6pm and 7pm, the victim was still at her work place at a shop in China Town when Foli went and demanded $50 from her.
He threatened to hurt her if she refused.
The victim replied him that they were no longer living together, and Foli entered the shop, grabbed a 24-inch bush knife on display and chased her in the shop.
The victim was in extreme fear, but her boss and security chased Foli out, and he returned the bush knife and left.
On 26 September 2024, the victim was on her way from work when she met Foli standing in front of a market stall with a brick in his hand, and attempted to throw it at her.
The victim was in extreme fear, but a male person bystander who was doing his marketing at the stall yelled at Foli, causing him to throw the brick down.
The victim reported the matter to the police, and Foli was arrested and charged.
Wally Hatingongo of Public Solicitor’s Office represents Foli, while Police Prosecutor Florence Hiroshachi appeared for the State.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
