Alleged rapist wants an open hearing

The young Arab man charged with the rape of a 55-year-old Floriana woman wants his case to be heard in open court.

Jamal Badawi's lawyer, Roberto Montalto, yesterday told Magistrate Lawrence Quintano his client did not want his case to be heard behind closed doors, except when the victim testified.

But Magistrate Quintano said it would be premature to give a ruling on the matter at this stage. Although the law stated that, in principle, all court hearings should be public, it laid down some exceptions and these would be taken into consideration at the appropriate time.

Badawi is pleading not guilty to the rape and illegal arrest of the woman in Floriana on June 29, violently and indecently assaulting her, offending public morals, seriously injuring her and carrying an air pistol without a licence.

Inspector Louise Calleja, for the prosecution, yesterday said the victim wished to testify but would like to avail herself of video conferencing facilities.

The magistrate acceded to the request and put off the case to Tuesday after learning that the one video conferencing room available at the lawcourts was in use.

He remarked that the situation was deplorable because the new procedures should have been supported by an adequate structure.