A 30-year-old businessman has been sentenced to 12 months’ probation supervision with the first three months to be served for community service.

Iti-O-Te-Ra Putaura, represented by defence lawyer Norman George, appeared before Justice of the Peace Tangi Taoro at the Criminal Court in Avarua yesterday.

He was convicted for two counts of assault on a female by punching her with his left hand and hitting her with a mobile phone.

On February 29 this year, Putaura pleaded guilty to the charges of the crime he committed on November 22, 2023.

The court heard that at about 8pm, he was travelling to Arorangi when he assaulted the victim. He first struck her once on the left eye with his mobile phone, followed by punching her facial area with his left hand numerous times.

JP Taoro said the defendant and the victim are in a relationship, and he assaulted the victim because he thought she was cheating on him.

She added that the victim was checked by a doctor, and the court noted the doctor’s diagnosis. However, the victim’s medical check was on December 4, two weeks after the assault on November 22.

JP Taoro said the victim’s diagnosis showed she had eye bruises, and the injuries took about two weeks to heal.

The JP acknowledged the Probation Services report and noted that Putaura provided financial support for his family.

He is a successful businessman in landscaping, lawn care, and has a long-term contract with a utility company by maintaining utility areas around the island.

JP Taoro said the court noted that Putaura showed no signs of remorse, indicating a lack of accountability.

He was further ordered to pay $20 for medical costs, $100 court costs, and not to leave the country without the court’s approval.

JP Taoro advised Putaura to start being accountable for his actions and comply with the law, or he would face continued court appearances.