Man charged for alleged rape of 67-year-old granted bail

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 19 August 2019, 8:00PM

A 22-year-old man charged with raping a 67-year-old woman from Faleula has been granted bail. 

Lagavale Pulou was remanded in custody last week after his hearing was cancelled because he had no money for bus fare to visit his lawyer. 

The assessor trial did not go ahead and as a result Pulou was remanded in custody to have his matter re-mention for another trial date. 

Represented by lawyer, Leota Tima Leavai, the 22-year-old defendant is facing five charges in relation to the alleged incident, which occurred last year. 

He pleaded not guilty to three charges of unlawful sexual connection, one count of theft and one count of trespassing. 

Before Justice Leiataualesa Daryl Clarke, the defendant was warned not to waste the Court’s time. 

“It is not satisfactory that you did not have enough pasese (money) to see counsel – you can also use a telephone,” said the Judge. 

He reminded the defendant that if he is granted bail he needs to make the effort to see his lawyer and not make excuses. 

Pulou is remanded in bail with conditions that he resides with his family at Vaitele Fou and presents at the Police station twice a week. 

The defendant was intoxicated when he allegedly raped the elderly mother from Faleula last year. 

By Matai'a Lanuola Tusani T - Ah Tong 19 August 2019, 8:00PM

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