A 19-year-old male has been placed on probation for two years under the guidance of the Social Welfare Department after being found guilty of raping his junior schoolmate six years prior. This ruling was made by High Court Judge Justice Riyaz Hamza, who suspended the accused’s two-year prison sentence for a total of seven years.
The offense occurred between June 1 and June 30, 2019, and details reveal that a teacher, alerted to the situation, confronted the victim who then reported the assault. Justice Hamza highlighted the severity of the act, stating, “You took advantage of the complainant’s vulnerability, helplessness, and naivety, and thereby disregarded his personal security and privacy.” Furthermore, the judge remarked that the young victim was robbed of his innocence at a vulnerable age.
In the ruling, Justice Hamza emphasized the importance of rehabilitation, ordering the Social Welfare Department to provide support, counseling, and assistance not only to the offender but also to his sister. The court mandated the sister’s responsibility in ensuring that her brother follows the directives provided by the Social Welfare Department.
This case brings to light the importance of addressing youth offending behavior and the potential for rehabilitation. Justice Hamza’s belief in the young man’s ability to reform suggests a hopeful possibility for recovery and a more positive future.
The context of youth offenses, along with the emphasis on rehabilitative support, mirrors similar cases where the court sought to balance accountability with the opportunity for young offenders to correct their paths. By reinforcing guidance and counseling, the court aims to mitigate future risks and promote a more constructive environment for both the victims and the offenders involved.
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