A rugby player for the Liahona Old Boys, Afimeimo’unga Hola, has received a suspended prison sentence under specific conditions after pleading guilty to charges of serious bodily harm and common assault.
The violent incident occurred following his team’s loss to Kolomatu’a Eagles in a heated match.
Enraged by the result, Hola chased down match official Kenipolo, punching him in the jaw and striking him again while he was on the ground.
When another official, Frederick, and several players intervened, Hola resisted and assaulted Frederick as well, shouting that he had been cheating.
Lord Chief Justice Bishop sentenced Hola to two years and six months in prison, fully suspended for three years.
The judge condemned Hola’s actions as disgraceful, emphasising that his behaviour ruined what should have been a fair and civilised sporting event.
Prior convictions
The court was informed of Hola’s extensive criminal history, which includes multiple convictions for drunkenness, abusive language, obstruction, threats, theft, and prior assaults.
The court noted that Hola showed remorse for his actions, which was taken into consideration during sentencing.
The court also heard Hola apologised to one of the victims, who accepted his apology.
However, the victim emphasised that violent behaviour, especially toward match officials, should never be tolerated on or near the rugby field, and that officials deserve protection, not abuse.
Compensation
Hola must comply with strict conditions as part of his three-year suspended sentence.
He is prohibited from committing any further offences punishable by imprisonment and has been placed on probation.
He must report to the probation office within 24 hours and complete a life skills and anger management course under the supervision of the Salvation Army within 12 months.
He has been ordered to pay $3,000 in compensation to Kenipolo and $1,500 to Frederick, with all payments due within a year. Hola must also complete 100 hours of community service within the same timeframe.
Justice Bishop warned Hola that any breach of his sentencing conditions would likely result in immediate imprisonment.
