THE man who damaged his father’s properties on Buena Vista Island in the Central Islands Province will return to court on March 4.
The adjournment was made to give more time for the prosecution to gather more information about the value of the properties that were damaged.
Richard Ria, 37, previously pleaded guilty to one count of Arson and two counts of Malicious Injuries.
He appeared yesterday in the Honiara Magistrate Court and his matter was further adjourned to March 4.
Public Prosecutor Irene Mae requested more time to allow the Tulagi police to travel to Ria’s family on Buena Vista to gather more information about the value of the properties he damaged.
She explained that she needs to include this information in the agreed facts of this case.
Principal Magistrate Felix Hollison therefore adjourned the matter to March 4 for sentencing submissions and mitigation.
He also directed the prosecution to get further information before the next court date.
The incidents in this matter occurred between 14 November 2024 and 13 January 2025 in Beta Village.
On 14 November 2024, Ria damaged his father’s Yamaha 40 horse Engine front pillar.
Then on 13 January 2025, he damaged a water tank and set fire to a kitchen house, burning half of it.
Thompson Fiuga from the Public Solicitor’s Office represents Ria.
By ASSUMPTA BUCHANAN
Solomon Star, Honiara
