A 45-year-old man, who was in July found guilty by a 12-member jury for sodomising a six-year-old boy, was sentenced to 23 years imprisonment on Thursday.
Leonard Albert
Leonard Albert, a cook of Port Kaituma, North West District, Region 1 (Barima-Waini), was given the sentence by Justice Simone Morris-Ramlall following a probation report.
The father of five was presented by Attorney-at-Law Maxwell McKay. The charge had stated that on June 09, 2012, Albert engaged in sexual penetration with the 6-year-old victim.
The probation report stated that victim felt ashamed and betrayed and is angry at himself for allowing Albert to touch him. He further stated that he wants Albert to be jailed.
State Prosecutor Tuanna Hardy during her address to the court asked for the sentence to be imposed considering the circumstances of the case.
“Children are vulnerable in society and should be protected,” Prosecutor Hardy told the court.
Probation Officer Collis Jacob, who is attached to the Port Kaituma Welfare Office, told the court that Albert was described as a humble person in his village. Jacob further indicated that a recent report was made against Albert by a woman who alleged that he had molested her son.
He noted that the matter is currently under investigation.
The Probation Officer further explained that Albert strongly denies committing the act, but stated that God is on his side and he is only worried about the $12M loan he has to repay for his home.
The Judge started her sentencing at a base of 25 years and subtracted two years based on the plea of mitigation. He will be eligible for parole after serving 20 years.
The Judge also ordered that Albert is exposed to educational classes while being incarcerated.
