Lindener jailed for 38 years for rape of young relative
A 25-year-old Lindener, who was found guilty of engaging in sexual activity with a young girl on separate occasions, was on Monday jailed.
A probation report presented in court revealed that the convicted man, Keon Lawson, and the victim are relatives. The probation officer informed the court that prior to the incidents, the victim was an “above average” student, always cheerful and interactive. However, this changed following the incidents and the victim’s academic performance became poor and socialising was no longer an interest of hers.
Convicted: Keon Lawson being escorted by Police ranks following his sentencing on Monday
Taking this into account, Justice Morris-Ramlall considered the prevalence of the crime within Region 10 (Upper Demerara-Berbice), together with the fact that Lawson breached the trust of a relative and showed no remorse for his actions.
Lawson of Wismar, Linden, was handed 18 years in jail on the first rape count, and 20 years on the second, which are expected to run concurrently.
The first charge read that between November 1 and 30, 2014, in the county of Demerara, he engaged in sexual activity with a six-year-old girl.
The second read that on October 6, 2017, in the county of Demerara, he engaged in sexual activity with the said victim, who was nine years old.
According to reports, on the first occasion, the convicted man went over to the child’s home, then proceeded to hold the child, cover her mouth and committed the act.
On the second occasion, the young girl visited Lawson’s home to uplift an item for her mother; however, upon arrival at his premises, he prevented her from leaving and proceeded to rape her.
The child later confided in her teacher about the incidents and the teacher informed the parents and Police.
Attorney-at-Law George Thomas represented Lawson while Prosecutors Teriq Mohamed and Nafeeza Baig presented the State’s case.
