On Tuesday morning, the trial concerning the statutory rape of a fifteen-year-old continued. The 40-year-old defendant stands accused of having raped the then 15-year-old on multiple occasions between February and July 2016. The girl claims that the two are in a relationship and happy.
In court, she explained that she had been in a bad relationship and then received comfort from the defendant, which she claims made her feel good. She then described enjoying kissing him, which eventually led to sex.
In tears, the young woman explained on Tuesday that three years ago to the day, she went out with the man's daughter, a schoolmate. The girls had had alcohol but she was adamant that she knew what she was doing. She explained that the situation had been difficult for both her and the defendant, but everything had been consensual and neither of them had considered their ages. She continued to say that she was still unbothered by the age difference.
The young woman went on to explain that both of them were confused and both denied their growing feelings. She said in court that she had tried to stop the relationship, but her feelings were too strong.
Her age had not been an issue despite his discovery that she was a minor. The defendant however was unaware that their relationship would be considered rape in the eyes of the law. He explained that he knew he was liable to be punished, but remained steadfast in acknowledging his love for her.
The court psychiatrist explained that the man was not sick and consequently, is criminally liable. A police officer involved in the inquiry told the court that the girl had initially denied the events before admitting them.
The defendant's lawyer had called for an acquittal, as he had not abused the young woman. In response, the prosecutor reminded the defence lawyer that under-16-year-olds cannot fully consent to sexual acts with an adult. The prosecutor continued to say the defendant had clearly confused sex and love and consequently had not held himself back. She denied the existence of any mitigating circumstances and called for a prison sentence of seven years.
The verdict will be proclaimed on 27 February.
