R v Confiance (CO 18/2017) [2017] SCSC 644 (12 July 2017)

IN THE SUPREME COURT OF SEYCHELLES Criminal Side: CO 18/2017 [2017] SCSC 644 THE REPUBLIC versus NEIL CONFIANCE Accused Heard: Counsel: Mr Vipin, Assistant Principal State Counsel for the Republic Mr Gabriel for the accused Delivered: 13 July 2017 SENTENCE Dodin J [1] This is the sentence. I have heard counsel in mitigation. The Convict is 19 years old, a first offender. He is a member of the National Football Team. I note that the amount of drug involved is not on the high side 6.86 grams of powder containing 2.9 grams of heroin. [2] He has pleaded guilty at the first opportunity, saved the Court’s time and expenses of a trial. As counsel has stated he is remorseful and in his case being a young person he should be given a chance to restart. [3] I note from the factors involved that there are no particular aggravating factors no, commercial element the amount of drug is on the low side. He co-operate with the police. I would therefore impose a non-custodial sentence. (1) I impose a sentence a fine of Rs30,000/- to be paid within 6 months of today. In default he shall be committed to prison for 1 year. (2) He should not commit any similar offence within the next 2 years otherwise he will not be a first offender and he will have to face imprisonment. [4] He can appeal against sentence within 30 working days. Signed, dated and delivered at Ile du Port on 13 July 2017 G Dodin Judge of the Supreme Court 2