Samoan Serial offender sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for rape of Australian tourist

Convicted felon Lauitiiti Tualima has been sentenced to 18 years imprisonment for raping an Australian tourist who was on her honeymoon in Samoa.

Tualima appeared before Justice Lesatele Rapi Vaai for sentencing in the Supreme Court today.

“You are now 23 years old and already you have 20 charges already proven by court and the sentences will conclude in 2027,” said Justice Lesatele.

“And the sentence to be given by the court today will add more years to your already long term punishment and seclusion in prison,” he added.

For the crime of rape itself, Tualima has been sentenced to 18 years.

Justice Lesatele took into account Lauitiiti’s apology to the court and his expression of remorse, but says he remains a threat to the community.

“Realistically, you remain a threat to the safety of the people of this country and the community. There is a high chance of you re-committing a crime unless we put you behind bars with no chance of coming out,” said Justice Lesatele.

The judge also quoted the final remarks within a report by the commission of parole that highlighted their conclusion of his behavior.

“Lauitiiti is at the stage where he sees Tafaigata as his real home. It’s a reason why he still gets involved in crime despite serving his sentences at the prisons. It showcases a lack of remorse from the individual and from his remarks and facial expressions he intends to commit crime again,” he said.

For the two added charges of sexual abuse, he has been sentenced to an additional 5 years.

Another 12 months for the charge of robbery and another 12 months is added for the charge of breaking and entering.

The sentences given out today by Justice Lesatele will commence after Tualima has served his current sentence for another offence.

The Tasmanian woman was raped in her hotel room as her husband, who was tied up by Tualima, lay near her.

The attack occurred in September last year.



Loop Samoa / Pic: News.com.au