Tonga’s Supreme Court has sentenced Viliami Tukuamoe’atu, 28, to three years’ imprisonment for reckless driving causing death, with the final two years suspended for two years under strict conditions.
Tukuamoe’atu pleaded guilty to reckless driving causing bodily injuries and the death of his father in a high-speed crash in Makaunga in January this year.
The court heard that Tukuamoe’atu was driving at up to 140 kilometres per hour while intoxicated, despite a sober passenger being available. After arguing with his father, who tried to stop him, he overtook multiple vehicles before losing control, striking an oncoming car, and crashing into an electric pole.
Lord Chief Justice Bishop told Tukuamoe’atu: “As you know, causing death by reckless driving has an increased maximum penalty of 15 years as opposed to the earlier penalty of 10 years, and there have been corresponding increases in the events of causing bodily harm by way of reckless driving. I must take account of the will of the legislature.”
While acknowledging Tukuamoe’atu’s previously clean record—though disputed in probation reports—Justice Bishop noted his contributions to his church and youth group.
“You have much to be ashamed of,” he said, but added, “I accept that your remorse is strong and sincere. I accept that you have been taught a very bitter lesson.”
The judge considered emotional testimonies, including pleas from Tukuamoe’atu’s widowed mother and injured fiancée, before setting a six-year starting point for the fatal crash and 18 months for bodily harm.
However, citing Tukuamoe’atu’s youth, remorse, and community ties, he suspended part of the sentence, stating: “For those reasons, I consider that the prospects of rehabilitation in your case are excellent, and I suspend the last 2 years of your sentence for a period of 2 years on conditions.”
Tukuamoe’atu’s driver licence was suspended for three years, and he must report to probation within 48 hours of release. The court also allowed his passport’s return—but only for agricultural work in Australia or New Zealand, with travel proof required.
Justice Bishop’s final warning was clear: It is crucial that you are reminded of the ramifications of speeding and overtaking.
