A 40-year-old temple priest of Indian origin, Jainesh Parasad, in Waikato, faces possible deportation, after after being convicted of assaulting a woman, The New Zealand Herald reported.
Prasad was sentenced in the Hamilton District Court on Friday for assault with intent to injure, assault in a family relationship, and breaching a protection order. His actions included pressing his fingers into her eyes, slapping her, and cutting her off from loved ones.
The Crown characterised Prasad’s behaviour as highly controlling—manipulating the victim’s finances, restricting her social interactions, and isolating her. He also falsely accused her of theft at her workplace in an attempt to sabotage her employment.
Victim Speaks of Abuse
In her victim impact statement, read in court, the woman described the abuse. She told Judge Glen Marshall that she would only feel safe if Prasad left the country.
Incidents of Violence
The court was told of Prasad’s violent actions, including an incident where he accused the woman of infidelity. When she attempted to sleep, he yanked away her blankets and struck her with such force that a tooth became loose. He then covered her mouth to silence her screams, making it difficult for her to breathe.
In another case from August 2023, during an argument, Prasad seized her head and pressed his fingers into her eyes. Two months later, he demanded access to her phone, and when she refused, he shoved her to the ground, grabbed her by the throat, and left her struggling for air.
His charge for breaching a protection order was linked to a false allegation he made to her employer, accusing her of workplace theft.
Defence and Sentencing
The New Zealand Herald reported, that Defence lawyer Katie Hogan argued that the relationship had been strained and deteriorating at the time. She pointed to Prasad’s previously clean record, his willingness to undergo rehabilitation, and his employment, arguing that deportation would be an excessive penalty.
“There is a real and significant risk of deportation,” Herald quoted her.
However, Crown solicitor James Lewis opposed this, emphasising that Prasad’s actions amounted to a serious breach of trust and left the victim in constant fear. He maintained that deportation was not an inevitable outcome.
Judge's Remarks
Judge Marshall praised the victim for her courage in reading her statement but criticised Prasad’s limited remorse and minimisation of his actions.
“He found that distressing for a man of his standing,” Herald quotes the judge, referring to Prasad’s comments about learning the relationship was over.
Ultimately, the judge denied the discharge without conviction, stating the offences were of a “moderate level” and warranted a criminal record.
Prasad was sentenced to 200 hours of community work and nine months of supervision, with conditions including no contact with the victim.
His future in New Zealand remains uncertain as immigration authorities may now consider deportation proceedings.
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