Painter jailed for defilement

Accra, Dec. 21, GNA - A 38-year-old painter, who was standing trial for defilement on Wednesday threw the audience at an Accra Circuit Court into laughter when he told the court that it was the victim who offered him the opportunity to defile her.

John Arhinful, who pleaded guilty, explained that after proposing to the victim, she agreed on an 80,000 cedis charge for sex. The court, however, did not find his explanation tangible and sentenced him to 10 years' imprisonment with hard labour.

Prosecution said the victim was a 13- year old pupil living with her grandmother at Kpong in the Eastern Region while accused resided at Abossey Okai, in Accra.

Prosecution said in October, this year, the victim left her grandmother for Accra but could not return.

The victim lodged with a friend at the Tema Station. On December 16, this year at about 0500 hours near the Arts centre, the victim and her friends met Arhinful, who called her. Prosecution said Arhinful after interacting with the victim lured her to nearby bush at the Independence Square, covered her mouth and defiled her.

During the act, a witness in the case heard the victim shouting for help.

Prosecution said the witness also raised the alarm and with the assistance of three others apprehended Arhinful, who was sent to the Domestic Violence and Victim Support Unit of the Police Service. In Arhinful's cautioned statement, he admitted the offence.