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by pltm
(PLTM) - A man who appeared before the Magistrate’s Court last Friday, May 12, pleaded not guilty to two charges of cruelty to a child. The court heard that the man was executing his fatherly duties by disciplining the child for her negligence and poor grades in school.
The man, who is originally from St. Thomas, resides in the Territory with his girlfriend, her 12 year-old daughter and their 4 months old baby.
According to the particulars of the matter, on October 4, 2016, following the man raising concerns with the minor’s mother about her behavior and academic performance in school, he reprimanded her and a brief argument ensued.
He then allegedly took a leather belt and beat her on her hands and legs, while the mother stood by and watched.
While at school the very same day, the minor begged a teacher for ice to cool her wounds. The teacher was further informed of what transpired, which led her to report the matter to the school’s principal and the Social Development Department (SSD) soon after.
In the presence of police and SSD officers, the minor recounted a total of nine strokes received from her step-father.
Another beating was recorded by SSD on May 4, when a social worker visited the minor while at school.
During conversation, the minor revealed that she had received another beating from the step-father, because she ate something belonging to her mother, without permission. She also showed the social worker corresponding marks on her legs and arms.
Bail, which was initially objected to by the crown, was granted in the sum of $50,000.
The court also encouraged the accused to seek assistance for his anger management in the meantime.
He will make another appearance on September 29.
