Justice Sandil Kissoon sentenced Anthony Patterson to 10 years in prison for raping a child under the age of 16. Patterson, from New Amsterdam, was arrested on April 21, 2024, after reportedly luring a 12-year-old girl into his home and assaulting her. He had pleaded guilty to the charge and was remanded at the New Amsterdam Prison awaiting trial.
Despite his guilty plea, Patterson maintained his innocence during sentencing, imploring the court for mercy. “I’m begging for a small mercy. I won’t find myself around little girls anymore,” he told the court.
Justice Kissoon emphasized the seriousness of the crime, noting the increasing incidents of sexual violence, particularly against children. He highlighted the gravely traumatic impact on the young victim, who was violated by someone she considered a neighbor and trusted adult.
The judge pointed out that the crime would have lasting social and mental consequences for the girl, necessitating significant counseling. Justice Kissoon also noted Patterson’s manipulative behavior in his psychiatric assessment and his history of prior offenses, including time served for larceny, which underscored his familiarity with law enforcement.
The ruling reflects a firm stance against the rising tide of sexual offenses in the country, particularly those targeting vulnerable children.
