Jerome Rodriguez, a 23-year-old from Bartica, has been sentenced to 20 years in prison for the rape of a twelve-year-old girl. The sentence was handed down by Justice Navindra Singh at the Essequibo High Court.
The incident occurred between June 1 and June 30, 2023, at Three Miles, Potaro Road, Bartica. Rodriguez was found guilty of engaging in sexual penetration with the minor, who he knew from the community and had been in regular communication with over the phone.
According to the details presented in court, Rodriguez approached the victim under the pretense of wanting to speak with her privately. He led her into a secluded area where he forced himself on her.
During his trial, Rodriguez pleaded not guilty to the charges and was represented by attorneys Latchmi Dindyal and Paul Fung-a-Fat. The prosecution, led by State Counsel Caressa Henry, argued for a sentence that reflected the severity of the crime, noting that Rodriguez showed no remorse for his actions.
In delivering the sentence, Justice Singh initially considered a 30-year prison term but reduced it by 10 years due to Rodriguez’s lack of prior convictions. However, the seriousness of the offense warranted a substantial sentence to serve as a deterrent against such crimes.
Rodriguez will serve his 20-year sentence in prison, reflecting the court’s commitment to addressing sexual violence against minors.
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