Rape charge dismissed against 26-year-old man

A charge brought against a 26-year-old man for raping a 15-year-old lass was on Monday discharged by Principal Magistrate Allan Wilson at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court after the victim told the court she does not wish to continue the proceedings.
The Police have said that a report was lodged on April 24, 2017 against the accused, and as such he was arrested and charged for rape of a child under 16 years old, contrary to section 10 of the Sexual Offences Act Chapter 8:03.
On January 25, 2021, the accused appeared at the Lethem Magistrate’s Court before Principal Magistrate Allan Wilson, where the charge was read to him and he was required to plead to the indictment.
As a result, he was placed on $75,000 bail.
Meanwhile, the accused made another court appearance on June 18, 2021, but the victim indicated to the court that she does not wish to proceed with the matter, and laid an affidavit of declaration to withdraw the report made against the 26-year-old.
Subsequently, advice was sought from the Director of Public Prosecutions, and on being advised, the matter was discharged against the accused on Monday.