A 13-year-old boy, convicted of raping an eight-year-old boy in a school restroom, has had his two-year jail sentence suspended for four years as part of a ruling emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment. The incident occurred between May 1 and November 30, 2024, when the victim sought permission from his teacher to use the toilet. The perpetrator followed him and committed the assault.
The victim faced a subsequent attack when the perpetrator approached him while he was walking home from school. Despite the traumatic nature of these events, the victim did not disclose the assaults until later. On November 30, a woman caught the victim and two other boys mimicking sexual acts at the victim’s home. After addressing their behavior, the victim confided in her about the assaults, prompting her to report the matter to the village headman and the police.
Justice Waleen George presided over the case, referencing Section 30 of the Juvenile Act 1973, which prohibits the imprisonment of children for their crimes. The law mandates that if imprisonment is deemed necessary, the sentence must not exceed two years.
A report from the Department of Social Welfare presented during the court proceedings noted that the boy displayed remorse and was cooperative. As part of the court’s decision, the boy’s father is required to enter a $500 good behavior bond, and the boy is to be monitored by the Social Welfare Department for four years. Justice George underscored the importance of providing prompt counseling for the juvenile and his family to prevent future legal issues.
This ruling highlights the judicial system’s recognition of the complexities involved in juvenile cases and its commitment to prioritizing rehabilitation. By focusing on reform, the court aims to guide young offenders towards more positive life choices, fostering hope for their future.