Teacher disputes breaking student's arm

A Primary School teacher has disputed the police summary of facts that he allegedly broke a young student’s arm and slapped him three times. 

Kitiona Mulifusi, a teacher of Sapunaoa Primary School, is facing one count of actual bodily harm in an incident that took place in a classroom last year.

Mulifusi, who pleaded guilty to the charge, disputed several claims that he broke the student’s arm as a result of the alleged assault. 

He also denies that he slapped the young student three times and had used a broom to beat him up.

Appearing on Thursday before District Court Judge, Alalatoa Rosella Viane Papalii, the defendant was not represented by a lawyer.

Prosecutor was the Attorney General’s Office lawyer, Sarona Time. 

During the proceeding, Ms. Time told the court that prosecution is not ready to proceed because they did not have the defendant’s file. 

Judge Alalatoa expressed concerns about the response from prosecution and delaying the matter. 

A relative of the young student who was involved in the alleged assault, Tuiloma Taeao, stood up in court and echoed similar concerns. 

The uncle of the young complainant told the court that he was disappointed with the ongoing delay of his nephew’s case. 

He said this is costing him and his family to travel to and from the village to attend the court proceedings without any finality to their matter. 

Judge Alalatoa noted the concern raised and told the complainant’s relative that she has already raised the issue with the Attorney General’s Office. 

The matter has been further adjourned until next week for prosecution to respond to the disputed summary of facts. 

If by next week the parties do not agree with the summary of facts, Judge Alalatoa said a hearing will be called.